Evaluation of the effect of Humic substance types and concentrations on germination and seedling properties of two triticale (Triticosecale hexaploide Lart.)varieties

Humic substances as an active part of soil organic maters can improve germination and seedling properties, plant establishment and plant growth. In order to study the effects of different concentrations of Humic and Fulvic acids on germination and seedling properties of two varieties of triticale (Triticosecale hexaploide Lart.), a factorial experiment based on a completely randomized design with three replications was conducted at the Special Crops Laboratory of Ferdowsi University of Mashhad during year of 2010. The studied factors included pretreatment concentrations at 4 levels (0, 10, 50 and 250 ml.l-1), triticale varieties at two levels (ET 79-17 and ET 89-15) and Humic substances type at two levels (Humic and Fulvic acids). Germination percentage of triticale was 100%, in all treatments. Results showed that the highest germination rate, radicle and plumule length, radical and plumule dry weight and seedling dry weight of triticale were in 50 ml.l-1 concentration of Fulvic acid and the second variety treatments. Generally, Humic acid pretreatments improved germination rate and seedling properties such as Fulvic acid compare to control. Seed pretreatment with Humicsubstances had significant effects on germination and seedling criteria of triticale.

Keywords:

Fulvic acid , Germination rate , Humic acid , Soil improvement