Effects of Seed Size Variation on Germination and Seeding Vigour of Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L.)

Abstract

Seed size has been considered as an effective criteria for selection of the most vigorous seeds in sorghum [(Sorghum bicolor (L) Moench]. The smaller seeds were inferior to the larger sizes in emergence and grain yield. This study was conducted to determine germination rate, field emergence and vigor of sorghum for selection of high quality seed by different seed size. Sorghum cultivar of two (Hwanggeumchal and Tojong) were separated into five seed size proportion (<2.36, 2.80, 3.15, 3.35 and >3.55 mm diam.) according to seed size. The larger seed was more higher 1,000 seeds weight, seed density, carbohydrates and protein content. Total seed germination performing varied 92% at the largest size (>3.55 mm diam.) frequently inferior to slightly 67% at smaller seed (2.36 to 2.80 mm diam.) in the standard germination test. Seed size did have a significant effect on mean emergence time (MET) and maximum emergence rate index (ERI) and percentage of emergence. It should be noted that the results refer to MET of sorghum seeds ranging from 4.26 to 4.74 days. The relationship of seed size was not only to stand establishment but to grain yield. Yield was most affected by seed size and large seeds were superior to the smaller seed in 25∼37% of the cases. Especially, yield was significant under 3.15 mm the beginning.

Comparative Study on Seed Characteristics, Antioxidant Activity, and Total Phenolic and Flavonoid Contents in Accessions of Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench

“…In the present study, high inter-accession variation was observed in the germination pattern of seed from various population of S. bicolor. Our results agree with the studies of Jung et al [ 60 ], who showed a wide variation range (67–92%) in the germination percentage of Korean cultivars. Substantial variation in the germination rate of sorghum was also reported by Harris et al [ 61 ], who observed a close association between seed size and seed germination rate in sorghum.…”

Multi‐trait stability index for the identification of shoot fly (Atherigona soccata) resistant sorghum lines from a mini core collection

“…Therefore, it is possible that the races may not show any definite relationship with levels of shoot fly resistance. Seed size influences germination and seedling vigor 52 . SH being related to seed size, it is possible that races having higher seed size and better vigor and seedling growth may have some influence in quickly escaping the sensitive stage as compared to races with lesser seed size.…”

“…Seed size influences germination and seedling vigor. 52 SH being related to seed size, it is possible that races having higher seed size and better vigor and seedling growth may have some influence in quickly escaping the sensitive stage as compared to races with lesser seed size. This relation, however, needs to be validated.…”