TECHNOLOGY

A Method for Improving the Germinability of Seeds

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Overview

The germination rate of crop seeds influences the final yield of crops planted by a farmer, yet currently there is no effective method for ensuring a high seed germination rate. In particular, seeds that have been stored for any length of time tend to show lower germination rates over time.

A researcher at Salisbury State University, in collaboration with a researcher at the University of Missouri, has developed a method for improving the germination rate of seeds. This method is environmentally safe and can improve the germination rate of seeds by over 100 percent. This method is particularly effective with seeds that have been in long-term storage, but it is also useful with fresh seeds and with seeds of plants that typically exhibit low germination rates.

Additionally, a closely related treatment was shown by the researchers to improve the growth of plant tissues grown in vitro. As more plant genetics research is performed in the laboratory, this improvement greatly enhances the success of such research. This method is also useful in the in vitro propagation of plants. A U.S. patent has been obtained.

For additional information please contact Mr. the Office of Technology Commercialization, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742. Phone (301) 405-3947. Email: [email protected]

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Email: [email protected]
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