PERFORMANCE OF WHEAT PROGENY UNDER DEFICIT IRRIGATION: EFFECTS ON GERMINATION AND SEED RESERVE UTILIZATION

Germination Potential of wheat seeds

Abstract

This study explores the impact of biochar amendments under deficit irrigation on seed germination performance, mineral content, and early growth in wheat (Triticum aestivum). A controlled experiment was conducted using three wheat varieties (Dilkhsh-2020, Akbar-2019, and Faisalabad-08) under two irrigation levels (100% and 50% field capacity) and three levels of soil applied biochar (0, 1.25, and 2.50 g/pot). The seeds used were the yield of previously conducted field trial and observed for their germination viability. Results showed that biochar significantly (p≤0.05) enhanced seed germination percentage and rate, particularly under water-limited conditions, where the Dilkash-2020 outperformed other varieties. Mineral analysis revealed increased nutrient contents in seeds from biochar-amended soils i.e. 82% higher nitrogen and 77% higher potassium in 2/5 g/pot biochar as compared to control under deficit irrigation. Biochar at 2.5 g/pot under deficit irrigation increased germination index (9%), seedling length (9%), seedling vigor (27%), water uptake (23%), stress tolerance (13%), root to shoot ratio (12%), and uniformity index (4-5%) as compared to normal irrigation. Multivariate analysis identified strong correlations between germination performance, nutrient content, and soil applied biochar, particularly under deficit irrigation. The findings emphasize potential of biochar in mitigating water stress, enhancing seed germination, and improving seed’s nutrient use efficiency, offering insights for sustainable crop establishment in water scarce environments.