Effects of hydro- and nano-priming treatments on seed germination and metabolism in sugar beet (Beta vulgaris L.)

This study examined the effects of hydropriming and nanopriming on the germination and physiological parameters of sugar beet seeds. Seeds were treated with distilled water as a traditional method and with TiO2 nanoparticle solutions at concentrations of 5, 10, and 15 ppm as an advanced method. Seeds were soaked for 3, 6, and 9 h, followed by postpriming maintenance for 10 and 45 days. T he results indicated no statistically significant differences in germination rates between the control and primed groups. Both priming methods markedly increased alpha-amylase activity and chlorophyll content, indicating improved metabolic and photosynthetic potential. Notably, nanopriming for shorter durations increased seedling vigor and reduced oxidative stress, although there was a slight rise in malondialdehyde levels after 9 h of priming. These findings demonstrate that hydropriming effectively enhances enzymatic activity and chlorophyll levels whereas nanopriming with TiO2 nanoparticles offers additional advantages in stress resilience and early seedling performance. This research provides valuable insights into optimizing seed priming techniques to enhance crop productivity in agriculture.