Seed germination of globe artichoke under seed color effect and NaCl levels

Seed color effect has been recognized as an important effective factor on seed germination in various crop plants. This study was carried out to determine the seed color effect on the seed germination of globe artichoke (Cynara scolymus L.) exposed to NaCl levels. A factorial experiment was used including two seed colors (black and green) and five salinity levels (0, 6, 12, 16, 20 dS m-1) in a randomized complete block design with three replications. To determine seed colors effect on germination and seedling growth were measured germination percentage (GP), shoot:root length and weight ratios and seedling vigour index (SVI). Seed color effect was no significant on shoot-root length and weight ratios, while it had significant effect on GP and SVI. Salinity had significant effect on all traits at 1% probability level. By increasing salinity was decreased GP in both seed colors, although the highest reduction was observed in green seed color (52%) in 20 dS m-1. Result suggests that black seeds could be preferred compared to green seeds color.