| Seed priming is a physiologically based, seed enhancement technique
designed to improve the germination characteristics of seeds.
Priming is
accomplished by partially hydrating seed and maintaining it under
defined moisture, temperature and aeration conditions for a prescribed
period of time. In this state, the seed is metabolically active.
In an
optimally hydrated, metabolically active state, important germination
steps can be accomplished within the seed. These include: repair of
membranes and/or genetic material, development of immature embryos,
alteration of tissues covering the embryo, and destruction or removal of
dormancy blocks.
At the conclusion of the process, the seed is redried to its storage
moisture level. The gains made in priming are not lost following
dry-back of the seed.
Primed seed is physiologically closer to
germination than unprimed seed. When planted at a later date, primed
seed starts at this advanced state and moves directly into the final
stages of germination and growth. |
