Quantification of the Seed Vigour in Maize (Zea mays L.) using a Universal Scale

Seed vigour quantification in maize

Abstract

Seed vigour is a crucial trait determining seed performance in the field, corresponding to germination rate and seedling establishment. However, accurate assessment of seed vigour and its relationship with field emergence remains challenging due to variations in seed moisture content, storage duration and environmental conditions among seed lots, and difficulties in maintaining uniform field conditions during evaluation. The present study was conducted to determine seed quality parameters of different maize varieties and seed lots for vigour characterization and to establish their relationship with field emergence. MaizeMaize seeds of two varieties, V1 (Bajaura Makka) and V2 (Girija), from five seed lots (L1–5) collected from different regional stations were evaluated in four replications. The experiment aimed to assess the effect of variety, seed lot, and their interaction on seed quality parameters. Observations were recorded, and correlations were calculated between seed quality parameters and field emergence at 5% and 1% significance levels. ANOVA revealed that all observed seed quality parameters were significantly and positively correlated with field emergence. Variety V1 (Bajaura Makka) and seed lot L3 (from the Department of Seed Science and Technology) showed maximum germination (96.45%), vigour indices (VI-I: 3446.95, VI-II: 6993.05), and field emergence (88.75%). The study establishes that quantifying vigour through laboratory seed quality parameters and relating them to field emergence can be reliable for identifying high-performing maize varieties and seed lots, enhancing crop establishment, productivity, and yield under variable environmental conditions.