Response of Muskmelon Seeds to Salicylic Acid and Proline at Different Temperatures

Effect of different seed treatments such as hydration, warm water, proline (10 mM and 20 mM) and salicylic acid (0.1 mM and 0.5 mM) was investigated on per cent germination and vigour indices I and II of muskmelon seeds at different temperatures (Cucumis melo L.) seeds. It was observed that lower temperature (200C) had decreased seed germination and activity of various antioxidant enzymes. Various seed treatments increased per cent germination and vigour indices I and II as compared to control at both the temperatures. Proline 20 mM and SA 0.1 mM showed better results as compared to proline 10 mM and salicylic acid 0.5 mM, respectively. Thus, proline and salicylic acid play an ameliorating role on low temperature stress by enhancing germination and vigour indices I and II.