Exploring the effects of different Osmopriming treatments on the seed germination characteristics of Cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.)

In an attempt to investigate the effect of osmopriming on seed germination characteristics of cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.), a factorial experiment in a completely randomized design with 3 replications was conducted in laboratory. Treatments included: PEG with 5 and 10% concentrations, KNO3 with 1 and 2% concentrations, and KCL with 2 and 4% concentrations and the seed soaking times were 6, 12, and 18 hours. The results indicated that the maximum radicle and shoot lengths were respectively found under KCl 4% and PEG 5% priming treatments and 12-hour time period. The maximum length ratio, dry weight ratio, and fresh weight ratio were respectively obtained from KNO3 1 and 2% priming treatments in 6- and 18-hour periods. The highest and the least radicle, shoot, and total dry weights were respectively obtained from PEG 5% and KNO3 2% treatments in 6- and 18-hour time periods. The highest germination percentage and germination rate belonged to the priming under KCl 2 and PEG 2 and 5% treatments during 6- and 12-hour periods. Therefore, seed priming with KCl better enhances seed germination and seedling growth in comparison to the other solutions.