| Seed priming is a process in which seed is hydrated and maintained at a designated moisture content under defined temperature and aeration conditions. The seed is dried after a specified time and planted with conventional equipment. Seed priming generally accelerates germination, particularly during adverse temperature or moisture conditions. The treatment has also increased the vigor and uniformity of numerous crops in the field. Inoculating seed with bacteria during solid matrix seed priming has increased the efficacy of the bacteria. Solid matrix priming techniques were developed for field and sweet corn seed (Zea mays L.) which were compatible with bacterial growth during seed priming and were practical for large scale application.;Germination characteristics of solid matrix primed field and sweet corn were tested under a range of temperatures in the laboratory. Solid matrix priming expanded the temperature range over which germination was allowed to proceed. At 5.6;Seed of field corn, onion (Allium cepa L.), and two sweet corn cultivars were inoculated with Enterobacter cloacae 102 (EC102) during and after solid matrix seed priming. These treatments were stored at 4... |
