The effect of drought induced by D-mannitol on the seed germination of winter wheat varieties

Aim. To investigate the impact of drought stress induced by D-mannitol on the seed germination of different genotypes of winter wheat, evaluate the drought resistance of varieties at early development stages, and determine the influence of their regional adaptation zones on drought tolerance. Methods. The study was conducted on 80 varieties of winter wheat developed by four research institutions and adapted to different soil and climatic zones. Drought resistance was evaluated using the method developed by T.V. Yurchenko with the application of an artificial high-osmotic medium based on D-mannitol. Statistical analysis was performed using Microsoft Excel and the ANOVA online calculator. The calculations included summation, mean values, standard deviations, and coefficients of variation. The significance level was set at p < 0.05. Results. A variety has been identified that significantly surpasses the standard variety, MIP Vyshyvanka, in drought resistance, while 24 varieties are at the level of the standard. Conclusions. The identified drought-resistant varieties are recommended for use in breeding programs to enhance drought tolerance in winter wheat. Further research should focus on the inheritance of drought resistance at early development stages and the analysis of heterosis effects among the varieties for the studied trait.