Effects of Seed Age and GA3 Application on Germination of Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.) and Cumin (Cuminum cyminum L.) Seeds

Abstract

This study was conducted at the laboratory of Department of Field Crops. Faculty of Agriculture, University of Ankara, during 2002-2004, Cumin and fenugreek seeds of cv. Gurarslan were used as seed material, The aim of the research was to determine the effects of seed age (fresh, 3, 6, 9, 12, 15, 18, 21 and 24 months after harvest) and gibberellic acid doses (control (distilled water), 100, 200 and 400 ppm) on germination rate of cumin and fenugreek seeds. The result showed that germination rate of seeds varied in the range of 95.5-100.0% in fenugreek and 18.5-79.0% in cumin. Seed age and GA(3) significantly affected germination rate of cumin. Germination rate of aged seeds of cumin was enhanced with GA(3) application. Germination of fenugreek seeds were not significantly influenced by seed age and GA(3). The application of 100 ppm GA3 should be advised to increase germination rate of naturally aged seeds of cumin.