The effect of pre-sowing plasma seeds treatment on germination, plants resistance to pathogens and crop capacity

Abstract

The effect of pre-sowing plasma seed treatments of some important agricultural plants (Triticum aestivum L., Lupinus angustifolius and Zea mays L.) and perennial species, well known for ornamental and medicinal use (Morus nigra L. (MN) and Rhododendron smirnowii Trautv. (RS)), on seed germination and plant resistance to common diseases during vegetation is studied. The early stages and longer-term observations of seedling development after seed treatment by physical stressor were investigated in order to estimate the sustainability of the observed effects. Optimal conditions for plasma treatment ensuring its maximum biological efficiency for different species are established in laboratory and field tests. The seed coat surface structure and seed EPR signal are investigated and some important factors of plasma treatment are discussed.[...]