Seed Quality and Seedling Growth After Applying Ecological Treatments to Crimson Clover Seeds

TL;DR

This study explores eco-friendly treatments to improve the seed quality and seedling growth of crimson clover.

Contribution

The study introduces new biotechnological methods using hot water treatments to enhance seed quality in crimson clover.

Findings

A 30-minute hot water treatment improved water absorption and reduced seed dormancy in crimson clover.

Longer treatment times increased dead seeds and abnormal seedlings, while shorter times increased dormancy.

Germination results were consistent between laboratory and field conditions.

Abstract

The effect of different treatments on the seed quality of crimson clover (Trifolium incarnatum L.) from six localities in eastern Serbia was investigated. The aim of this study was to improve seed quality and seedling growth of T. incarnatum using eco-friendly treatments. Tests were carried out under laboratory and field conditions, using hot water and air-drying temperatures. Seed quality parameters included germinated seeds, dormant seeds, dead seeds, seedling growth, and abnormal seedlings, all expressed as percentages. The water absorption test confirmed the presence of physical seed dormancy in crimson clover. The best results were achieved with a 30-min hot water treatment, which increased water absorption and reduced the percentage of dormant seeds. Longer exposure times increased the percentage of dead seeds and abnormal seedlings, whereas shorter exposure times increased the percentage of dormant seeds and reduced germination. There was strong agreement between the germination results obtained under laboratory and field conditions. These findings illustrate new biotechnological approaches to enhancing seed quality.

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