How various plasma sources may affect seed germination and growth

Germination and early growth of buckwheat (Fagopyrum aesculentum) after low-temperature plasma discharge treatment in air gas generated in various devices were tested. Three pre-treatment times were used: 180 s, 300 s and 600 s. Seed cultivation was carried out in laboratory conditions. Number of germinating seeds was counted, length and weight of seedling sprouts were measured. The data were analysed with two-way ANOVA: a significant influence of the type of plasma apparatus, time of exposure and combination of both factors were found. A positive effect on germination and early growth was observed after the application of GlidArc device (low-temperature plasma generated in air gas under atmospheric pressure between two electrodes). The opposite effect of surface dielectric barrier discharge (SDBD) apparatus, which is characterized by plasma with high power density, was observed. Shorter pre-treatment times for SDBD device must be therefore used. Effects of seed germination and early growth of seeds strongly depended on the type of the used plasma apparatus.