Primary diagnostics of drought resistance of wheat genotypes under osmotic stress

The primary drought resistance of wheat plants of Moldavian and Ukrainian selection to induced drought caused by different sucrose solutions (3, 5, 10, and 16%) was studied. Testing of six wheat genotypes from Moldova and Ukraine revealed a distinct distribution of seed germination rates at sucrose concentrations above 16%. Genotypes showed a sharp response in root development to 3% and 5% sucrose compared to aboveground parts. These reactions of the root system can allow the classification of genotypes according to drought tolerance. This method provides an effective tool for the early selection of drought-resistant genotypes, supporting sustainable wheat cultivation under water stress conditions.