Impact of hydro priming on seed germination and field emergence in ajwain (Trachyspermum ammi)

Seed priming, a pre-sowing treatment aimed at enhancing germination speed and early seedling vigor, was evaluated in Ajwain (Trachyspermum ammi). Hydropriming durations significantly influenced germination and seedling vigour parameters. Seeds primed for 65 hours exhibited the shortest germination initiation time (16 hours) compared to 66 hours in non-primed seeds and 94 hours in seeds primed for 10–15 hours, highlighting the importance of optimal hydration for metabolic activation. The shortest Mean Germination Time (66 hours) and the highest germination uniformity were observed with hydropriming durations of 50–55 hours, demonstrating enhanced synchronization and seedling vigor. Although field emergence rates remained statistically insignificant across treatments, the hydropriming for 40-50 hrs significantly enhance the speed of field emergence, seedling length (8.81 cm) and biomass (fresh and dry weights) (45 DAS), as compared to the control (8.31 cm), indicating physiological benefits under field conditions. However, non-significant impact on seed yield (g/plot) was observed, likely due to environmental variability. These findings revealed that hydropriming can be used as a potential tool for improving germination speed and early seedling vigour in Ajwain, with possible applications in other seed spice crops.