Seed Priming Increases Germination and Seedling Quality in Antirrhinum, Dahlia, Impatiens, Salvia and Zinnia Seeds

This study was carried out to investigate the effect of hydropriming on seed germination and seedling growth of five different flower seed species (Antirrhinum, Dahlia, Impatiens, Salvia and Zinnia). Hydropriming (20oC, 24 h), surface dried or dried back afterwards, was found to increase germination percentage, seedling emergence and fresh and dry weight. In all species, the maximum advantage in germination and emergence was obtained in those that were surface dried. The maximum benefit was observed in Antirrhinum and Dahlia. In these two species, surface dried seeds were 18% and 17% superior in terms of germination, and 20% and 13% superior in terms of seedling emergence compared to the control, respectively. For the other three species, although there was a positive effect, it was less pronounced. It was concluded that hydropriming can be used to enhance seedling quality in flower seeds.