Effects of seed coating methods on germination of Medicago sativa in different moisture stress levels and sowing depths

Abstract

This research was performed in order to expand different scientific dimensions of seed coating as a new method, increase the quickness and percentage of budding, and consequently contribute to the initial continuation of Medicago sativa species in dry situation and different depths of planting. This plan was carried out as a factorial test in the form of completely coincidental pattern with three replications. Soil moisture percentage (dryness) in three levels of 9%, 14%, 21%, dried soil weight, planting depths in two levels of seed thickness and planting at surface and substance coverage in four observation levels without covering (NC), substance with organic base (OC), substance with Hydrogel base (HC), and substance with mineral base (CC) have been applied during the test. The factor of germination percentage was tested and measured. The triple interaction effects of soil moisture, sowing depths and coating materials indicated that germination percentage in all coating materials regardless of coating type in 14% and 21% soil moisture levels and surface sowing depth were more than testator treatment without cover (NC) in 9% moisture. According to the results, there was no germination in this level. In terms of sowing depth of three times, the seed diameter and 21% soil moisture, there was no significant difference in germination percentage between testator and coating treatments, but the most recent germination was seen in testator treatment with surface field and 21% moisture. It was almost constant in the other treatment in three times the seed diameter. Results showed that seed coating is important to germination seed in dry weather and it can promote percent of germination significantly based on treatment.