ASSESSMENT OF ADVANCE SEED PRIMING ON THE PHENOLOGICAL, PHYSIOLOGICAL CHARACTERISTICS, YIELD CONTRIBUTING ATTRIBUTES AND STORAGE BEHAVIOUR OF THE CORIANDER ( Coriandrum sativum L.) UNDER AMBIENT CONDITIONS OF UTTARAKHAND

The study titled “Assessment of Advance Seed Priming on the Phenological, Physiological Characteristics, Yield Contributing Attributes and Storage Behaviour of Coriander (Coriandrum sativum L.) Under Ambient Conditions of Uttarakhand” was conducted over two consecutive years (2021-22 and 2022-23) at H.N.B. Garhwal Central University, Uttarakhand. The objective was to evaluate the effects of different seed priming treatments on coriander's germination, growth, yield, and storage behavior. The experiments involved Trichoderma viride, Vermiwash, Silver nanoparticles, Concentrated H₂SO₄, and Plasma treatments, with control groups for comparison. Laboratory studies revealed that silver nanoparticle treatment (24 hours) exhibited the highest germination rate (92%), vigor index, and seedling growth parameters, followed by Trichoderma viride (24 hours) and Vermiwash (12 hours). Field trials confirmed that silver nanoparticles significantly improved plant height, early flowering, number of umbels, and seed yield (896 kg/ha). Physiological studies showed increased chlorophyll and protein content in primed seeds. Storage experiments indicated that silver nanoparticles and Trichoderma viride preserved seed viability and vigor for extended periods, with plasma treatment effectively reducing mycoflora contamination. The findings suggest that silver nanoparticle priming is the most effective technique for improving seed quality, yield potential, and storage longevity in coriander. The study highlights the importance of advanced priming techniques in sustainable seed enhancement and productivity under varied environmental conditions. Keyword: Trichoderma viride, Plasma, Vermiwash, Silver nanoparticle, priming