A multivariate analysis of seed priming agents and dosage on germination performance seedling growth and biochemical...

The seed sector and end users are encountering various problems, such as substandard and non-certified tomato seed production, which has resulted in reduced yield. Seed priming is a promising method to enhance germination, vigor, stress tolerance and yield under challenging environmental conditions. Therefore, to mitigate the above-stated problem, a study was designed to improve the seed quality of two tomato genotypes (i.e. AVTO1219 and Naqeeb) by enhancing the germination performance, seedling growth and biochemical parameters under controlled conditions. Three distinct priming techniques, including halopriming (KNO₃, CaCl₂), biopriming (Chitosan) and osmo-priming (Polyethylene glycol) were employed, each of which was applied at three different concentrations. The results indicated that halopriming with CaCl₂ (0.5%, 0.75% and 1%) significantly improved germination attributes, seedling vigor and biochemical attributes (chlorophyll and carotene content), compared to other treatments and control. A strong positive correlation was observed among most of the traits, except mean germination time, root-to-shoot ratio, and carotenoids. Multi-trait genotype-ideotype distance index (MGIDI) identified CaCl₂ priming as the most effective treatment for both genotypes. Overall, CaCl₂ and KNO₃ priming positively influenced the seed performance, thus enhancing resilience and adaptability against adverse environments. These findings highlight the potential of seed priming to support the development of stress-tolerant and high-yielding tomato varieties.