Solid Matrix Priming Treatment with O2 Enhanced Quality of Leek Seed Lots

This study aims to determine the effect of solid matrix priming (SMP) treatment with an air composition of O-2, N-2, air, vacuum on four leek (Allium ampeloprasum L.) seed lots of various ages, in terms of enhancing germination, mean germination time, electrical conductivity of solute leakage and catalase activity. Untreated seeds were used as control. Solid matrix priming at a seed: vermiculite: water ratio of 2.5:1.25:3.75 (w/w/w) was applied at 20 degrees C for 24 hours in the dark. Solid matrix priming with O-2 was found to give the highest germination, lowest mean germination time, lowest electrical conductivity (reduced solute leakage) and the highest catalase activity among all treatments and lots. SMP treatment with air provided positive response, while N-2 and vacuum treatments were found to be less effective. The advantages of solid matrix priming were more pronounced in lower quality lot than in the higher quality ones. The results indicated that oxygen enrichment in SMP may enhance leek seed quality.