Seed priming an improvement for late sown wheat: A review

Abstract

Germination and seedling emergence are the critical stages in the plant life cycle. Insufficient seedling emergence and inappropriate stand establishment are the main constraints in the production of crops. Under various adverse conditions and late sowing cereal crops are affected like late sowing of wheat generally experience terminal heat stress which adversely affects crop growth and yield. Seed soaking with water in cereal crops especially wheat and rice has been found to be better in mitigating the detrimental effect of adverse climatic conditions. Pre-germinated seeds and seed priming is helpful in early germination and reducing the risk of poor stand establishment. On the other hand, good crop establishment increases competitiveness against weeds, increase yield and avoids the need for re-sowing that is costly too.