Influence of hydrogel on germination of lettuce and onion seed at different moisture levels

The influence of Agrisorb (water solution 1, 3, 5 g/l) on lettuce and onion seed germination was tested in different moisture conditions (30 ml and 15 ml of water in germination box). Variants with reduced water level germinated much more slowly (MGT parameter) than standard variants, though differences in total germination at the end of the test were insignificant. Treated variants of lettuce seeds showed a statistically significant increase in germination energy (GE) on the first day (GE1, both water levels), but a significant decrease on the second day (columns GE2, 15 ml). Higher doses of Agrisorb slowed lettuce seed germination (GE2, 30 ml, dose 5 g) significantly, similarly see GE2 (15 ml, doses 1, 3, 5 g). This slowdown was apparent for GE3 (both water amount) as well. A similar but insignificant effect was evident for onions. There was an influence of cultivar and seed vigour on sensitivity to water stress. The hydrogel application influenced germination of lettuce and onion seeds. Treated lettuce seeds germinated faster than non-treated control in the beginning of germination process. This effect was not recorded in case of slowly germinated onion seed lots. Although influence of Agrisorb was positive in the beginning, higher doses of hydrogel reduced germination energy of treated seed lots (for example GE2, GE4) of both crops in comparison with non-treated control. Higher doses of hydrogel caused longer MGT of lettuce and onion as well.