COMMERCIAL EXAMPLES OF SEED PRIMING
In professional environments , seed priming may involve a solute , whereas in-home gardeners will likely use water to prime their seeds . Even water vapour can aid in the seed priming process . In a study of nanoparticle-mediated seed priming , seeds received a treatment of nanopriming agents , in this case turmeric oil nanoemulsions ( TNE ) and silver nanoparticles ( AgNPs ). This seed priming measure improved the germination of notoriously temperamental watermelon seeds and resulted in improved germination , better growth , and increased yield without altering the quality of the fruit . Another study tested seed priming in developing countries . This study largely found “ on-farm ” seed priming to be significantly positive in its impacts to seed germination , plant growth , and crop yields . prime examples
Starting seeds is so much fun , and it ’ s even better when you ’ re able to up the ante for quicker and better results . Consider what you ’ re planning to grow and whether priming the seeds can enhance your gardening experience .
PROFESSIONAL SEED PRIMING METHODS
Commercial growers and suppliers rely on proven methods to prime seeds for best germination , growth , and yield . Some have their own proprietary means of priming seeds while others adhere to tried and true techniques . Here are the most common commercial priming methods .
1 . DRUM PRIMING – Seeds soak up moisture from controlled humidity within a rotating drum . The monitored water vapour moistens the seeds and primes them for optimal growth .
2 . HYDROPRIMING – While used in commercial operations , this method would also work at home . Hydropriming involves soaking seeds in water , specifically in aerated distilled water if possible .
3 . ON-FARM SEED PRIMING – Farmers can soak seeds overnight and allow them to dry briefly before planting . This method can reduce the overall time needed for the seeds to soak water directly from the soil .
4 . OSMOPRIMING – Soaking seeds in low water content paired with osmotic solution relies on osmosis to jumpstart the seeds without kicking them into true germination . Plant hormones or beneficial microorganisms may also be mixed into the priming solutions .
5 . SOLID MATRIX PRIMING – A slower method , seeds begin in an insoluble medium that readily absorbs water , such as vermiculite . This method limits water uptake by the seeds .
Take these tips on priming seeds at face value and give it a whirl with your next planting . This is one case where it ’ s quick , clean , and easy to make a difference in your gardening endeavours !
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SEEDS BEST SUITED FOR PRIMING
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You can prime these seeds for quicker and more abundant germination . Try at-home priming with wet paper towels or seed soaking for the following seeds , to name a few .
Not all seeds need to be primed . Some , particularly those that are finicky when transplanted , may not be great candidates for seed priming or may sprout just fine on their own . Those that are small may simply not need it . Carrots , lettuce , radishes , and some herbs and flowers may do better without priming . If you do choose to prime these seeds , soak in a small dish of water and watch closely every few hours to avoid overdoing it . Trial and error is one of the best parts of gardening !
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