Use of seed vigour tests to predict seedling emergence of carrot

Abstract

The present study was conducted to evaluate seed vigour tests to predict field emergence in carrot (Daucus carota L.). Eight commercial carrot seed lots were compared by standard germination, vigour index, germination at non-standard temperatures, accelerated ageing and saturated salt accelerated ageing tests. These vigour tests were able to assess vigour differences among different seed lots. The field emergence percentage ranged from 33.2 to 56.5 in carrot seed lots. The seedling emergence percentage of the carrot seed lots in the field was positively and significantly correlated with standard germination (r = 0.937***), germination at non-standard temperature of 15°C (r = 0.954***) and saturated salt accelerated ageing using NaCl - RH 75% (r = 0.952***). Determination coefficient (R2) of carrot seed lots for germination at non-standard temperatures of 15°C and saturated salt accelerated ageing using NaCl (RH 75%) were found significant and explains 91 and 90% of variation in field emergence, respectively. The results suggest that non-standard temperature of 15°C and saturated salt accelerated ageing using NaCl (RH 75%) can be used to predict seedling emergence of carrot seed lots.