The improvement of traits and germination indices of three ecotypes of savory (Satureja hortensis L.) by seed priming

Seed germination ability is an essential step for optimum stand establishment. Seed priming includes very simple methods that could improve seed germination and establishment of the seedling. Satureja hortenssis L. is an aromatic plant used in the food and pharmaceutical industry. To evaluate the effect of priming on germination of Khuzestan, Isfahan, and Ardestan ecotypes of Satureja hortensis L, a factorial experiment on the base of a completely randomized design was conducted with three replications. Factors are four concentration levels (0, 50, 100, and 200 ppm) of KNO3 and three priming time levels (0, 24, 48 hours). Results showed that germination parameters reduced at 200 ppm of KNO3 and 48 h in the Khuzestan and Ardestan ecotypes, but for the Isfahan ecotype, 24h after treatment with 100 ppm KNO3 most germination parameters were reduced. According to the observed results, the best and most effective treatment for stimulation of germination is different for each ecotype. In conclusion, these results showed that the low concentration of KNO3 increased germination and seedling parameters, but the high concentration decreased studied traits.