Optimal condition determination for Ajwain (Carum capticum) standard germination test

Randomized factorial design was implemented in four replications to determine optimal methods of Ajwain (Carum capticum) standard seeds germination. Ajwain seeds were placed top and between paper and sand exposed to two potassium nitrate (two grams per 1000 ml distilled water) and pre-chilling (seven days under 7-10ºC) pre-treatments which were under six temperatures (10, 15, 20, 25, 20-30, and 35ºC) in germinator for 25 days so as to germination indices were assessed. Ajwain seeds viability was estimated 75% after tetrazolium test. The highest final and normal seedling percentages were found under 15 and 20ºC in pre-chilling treatment and also 20ºC in potassium nitrate and control. No germination was observed under 35ºC in potassium nitrate and control, however, pre-chilling led to >26% germination. The higher germination potential was shown in top and between papers compared with sand. The lowest germination rate was recorded in control and potassium nitrate and the highest one in pre-chilling. The maximum of seedling weight vigor was suggested in top and between paper when seeds were put under 10, 15, and 20ºC. In order to evaluate optimal standard germination of Ajwain seeds, it was resulted that applying of two potassium nitrate and pre-chilling treatments placed top and between papers under 15 and 20ºC caused maximum of germination potential and seedling weight vigor.