Prediction of viability of leek (Allium porrum) seeds by a new test

Abstract

The objective of this research was to determine the suitability of boiling water test in the prediction of seed viability in leek seed and to compare this test with standard germination and vigour test. Basic principle of boiling water test is the evaluation of radicle protrusion from the seeds immersed to boiling water for certain time. The viability of aged and unaged leek seeds in boiling water test was correlated with standard germination and vigour test. In this research. the mean germination of unaged leek seeds varied from 29,639% to 70,18% depending on the cultivars. While the range of boiling water test in unaged leek seeds was between 35.57% to 51,06%, the range for emergence was between 27,63% to 72,05%. The viability of aged and unaged leek seeds in boiling water test was correlated with standard germination test. According to the results of this research, it might be assessed that boiling water test is a rapid and simple method to measure seed viability by evaluating radicle protrusion of leek seeds in boiling water. In conclusion. boiling water test as a new viability test for leek seed could be used as a rapid method for determining the viability in leek seeds.