Effect of Solid Matrix Priming (SMP) on Germination and Seedling Vigor in Watermelon Seed

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of Solid Matrix Priming (SMP) on watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) seeds to ensure high-quality seedling production and uniform germination even under adverse conditions.To assess the effects of SMP, germination rates and seedling vigor were tested under moisture stresses as well as in germination mediums with varying oxygen levels.The SMP material used in the experiment was Micro cel-E, with a seed:materials:water ratio of 10:5:10, treated for 3 days at 25C.For OP, seeds were treated with a 200 mM KNO 3 solution for 4 days at 25C.Germination rates under SMP were assessed under oxygen deficit conditions which varied based on the orientation of micropyle in comparison with untreated ones.SMP significantly improved germination rates and shortened germination time, especially under low temperature and water-stress conditions.Under base-stress and reduced oxygen supply as well, SMP showed enhanced germination.Additionally, SMP-treated seeds showed rapid water absorption and stable induction periods, leading to faster germination compared to OP.Although both SMP and OP effectively enhanced germination, SMP was superior in reducing germination time.