Storage performance of primed bell pepper seeds with 24-Epibrassinolide

Seed response to priming with 24-epibrassinolide (24-EpiBL) has been studied to investigate the effects on speed of germination, often leading to improved stand establishment. However, knowledge about the response of primed seeds treated with 24-EpiBL during storage remains insufficient. This research was performed to verify the effects of bell pepper seed priming (Capsicum annuum L.) with 24-EpiBL after storage. Two cultivars (AF-6 and AF-7) were used, represented respectively by three and four seed lots of different physiological potential. All lots were stored for 0, 3, 6, 9, and 12 mo after priming with 24-EpiBL. Seeds were evaluated for germination and vigor (germination first count; saturated salt accelerated aging, and using the Seed Vigor Imaging System); unprimed seeds represented the control. Priming with 24-EpiBL promoted positive effects on germination speed, seed tolerance to heat stress, and initial development of seedlings with responses being more evident in lower vigor seed lots. The beneficial effects of priming with 24-EpiBL in bell pepper seeds is maintained after storage, but may gradually decrease after longer storage period.