Seed Priming Techniques in Modern Agriculture: Methods and Benefits

Abstract

Seed priming has emerged as a vital tool in modern agriculture, addressing challenges such as low germination rates, poor crop establishment, and vulnerability to environmental stresses. This paper provides a comprehensive review of the primary seed priming techniques, including hydropriming, osmopriming, biopriming, and hormonal priming, each of which enhances seed performance by preconditioning seeds prior to sowing. Through priming, seeds undergo controlled hydration and partial metabolic activation, allowing for faster germination, improved stress tolerance, and healthier seedling development upon sowing. This review explores the specific benefits and mechanisms of various priming methods, along with their applications across a range of crop species. The findings highlight seed priming's potential to improve agricultural productivity, reduce dependency on chemical treatments, and contribute to sustainable farming practices by enhancing crop resilience against abiotic and biotic stresses. Seed priming is therefore presented as an accessible and cost-effective technique that can significantly improve germination quality, optimize seed vigor, and support global food security efforts.