Drum priming in snap bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) seed

Abstract

Priming is a treatment that improves the seed lot performance of several species, particularly the speed of germination. Drum priming (DP) is a low-cost process that promotes a slow water uptake by the seeds. The purpose of this study was to assess the efficiency of DP on the performance of large and small seeds of six snap bean cultivars. The curves of seed imbibition and the seed water content at the time of radicle protrusion were evaluated. In addition, the influence of DP on seed performance was examined based on vigour index using the Seedling Vigor Image System software (SVIS®), electrical conductivity and percentage of germination. The results showed that the seed water content at the time of radicle protrusion ranged between 33.8 and 51.5%. The DP technique improved snap bean seed performance in a cultivar-specific pattern. Snap bean seed vigour was efficiently evaluated through SVIS®, which was used for determination of the vigour index and seedling length.