Exploration on impact of GA3 encapsulated silica nanoparticles (nSiO2) on seed germination and seedling vigour of ten months aged maize (Zea mays L.) varieties seeds.

Abstract

In nanotechnology, a particle is defined as a small object that behaves as a whole unit with respect to its transport and properties. Nanoparticles can serve as ‘magic bullets’, containing plant growth regulators, herbicides, chemicals or genes, which target plant parts to release the content. The use of silica nanoparticles in the growth of plants and for the breaking dormancy, improve seed germination and increasing the vigour of maize seed. The present study was aimed evaluating that effect of GA3 encapsulated silicon nanoparticles (SiO2) comparative efficiency of invigoration technology on seed germination and early seedling growth of maize varieties. The ten month aged seeds of six maize varieties, along with seven invigoration treatments i.e. control, nanosilica 8g/l, GA3 100 ppm, 100 ppm GA3 encapsulated nanosilica, 125 ppm GA3 encapsulated nanosilica, 150 ppm GA3 encapsulated nanosilica and 100 ppm PEG encapsulated nanosilica. D-765 maize variety had significantly maximum value for seed quality parameters including standard germination percentage (77%), seedling length, seedling dry weight, seedling vigour index- II, speed of germination, index of synchrony germination, Relative growth index, mean germination time, germination value, germinable energy, mean daily germination and peak value. The nano-invigorated ten month aged seeds of maize variety D-765 invigorated with 150 ppm GA3 encapsulated nanosilica showed highest value for standard germination percentage (88%) and other seedling quality parameters. It was concluded that GA3 encapsulated nanosilica (nSiO2) has produced better seed germination potential and seedling growth, as they are able to penetrate seed coat and delivery of GA3 in seed embryo.