Utilization of Naturally Occuring Seed Priming Agents in Enhancing Seed Germination and Seedling Emergence of Rice (Oryza Sativa L.)

Abstract

Seed priming is an effective tool to attain high germination and germination rate, uniformity of seedlings and crop stand. This study was conducted to determine the effectiveness of seed priming on the germination and early seedling establishment of rice. The experiment was laid out in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD). Rice seeds were subjected to priming for 12 and 24 hours in tap water, coconut milk and coconut water. When the seed priming was accomplished, seeds were removed from the priming agents and placed on top of cloth; they were later air dried and sown. Seed priming in water for 12 hours enhanced the germination percentage to 71.80%; the rate of germination and plant height of the seedlings increased to 33.13 cm, and root length to 13.07 cm.  After seed priming, the seedling height of rice considered ideal for transplanting was attained on the 13th day of sowing. The effects of priming in water and coconut water for 12 and 24 hours are comparable; however, seed priming in water for 12 hours resulted to the tallest seedling at 20.92 cm. Seed priming in water for 12 hours is sufficient in enhancing seed germination and the early seedling establishment of rice but coconut water if available can also be used.