Combined Silicon dioxide and Salicylic acid Mediated Approach in Stimulating Germination and Seedling growth of Rice Var. FARO44

Abstract

Seed presoaking is an essential approach that improves germination, seedling growth and vigour of variety of arable crops. Seed presoaking study was performed with combined 3% SiO₂+350 mM SA and 3.5% SiO₂+200 mM SA on FARO44 rice on field conditions. In this study, laboratory experiments were undertaken to determine the effect of combined silicon dioxide and salicylic acid presoaking in increasing germination and seedling growth of FARO44 rice. In the laboratory, FARO44 rice seeds presoaked in 3% SiO₂+350 mM SA and 3.5% SiO₂+200 mM SA were germinated in specimen bottles for two weeks. Each treatment was replicated five times. The results found that 3% SiO₂+350 mM SA and 3.5% SiO₂+200 mM SA presoaking significantly improved germination index and decreased germination time of FARO44 rice. However, seed presoaking had not improved germination percentage of FARO44 rice compared to unpresoaked seeds. Furthermore, presoaking of FARO44 rice in 3% SiO₂+350 mM SA and 3.5% SiO₂+200 mM SA stimulated seedling growth by increasing seedling length and root length. However, plumule length was not positively affected compared to control. Similarly, seedling biomass and vigour were increased by 3% SiO₂+350 mM SA and 3.5% SiO₂+200 mM SA presoaking. Thus, presoaking of FARO44 rice with combined silicon dioxide and salicylic acid were suggested for increased germination and seedling growth.