The relationship between seed vigor tests and field emergence of wheat lots

The study aimed to predict the correlation between field emergence of fresh and old wheat seed lots for three wheat varieties: Sakha 95, Sakha 94, and Misr 3. To assess the physiological quality of seeds, various vigor tests were utilized. Laboratory and field experiments were conducted at the Seed Technology Research Department (STRD), Agricultural Research Station in Tag El-Ezz, Dakahlia Governorate during the winter seasons of 2019/2020 and 2020/2021. Using less robust seeds can result in a yield reduction of up to 27%. Laboratory tests, such as standard germination (SG), seedling length (SL), seedling dry weight (SDW), seedling vigour index (SVI), accelerated aging test (41°C for 48 h), and electrical conductivity test (EC), were conducted to assess the vigour of wheat seed lots. These tests successfully detected variations in vigour among the different seed lots. Also, a field study was conducted to estimate field emergence. The appropriate test for estimating field emergence was determined using correlation coefficients. The findings showed that most vigor tests were helpful in classifying seed lots based on the physiological stage of deterioration. Standard germination (SG), Electrical conductivity test (EC), and Accelerated aging provided the best estimate for the viability of seed lots and prediction of wheat variety emergence in the field. The electrical conductivity test and aging test were found to be the most effective in assessing the quality of wheat seeds and predicting their field emergence as seedlings. There was a strong correlation between these vigor tests and field emergence. Therefore, it is recommended to use the electrical conductivity test and accelerated aging test to rank seed lots and predict their field emergence, seedling establishment, and overall performance. These tests have proven to be reliable indicators of wheat seed emergence potential.