Nano-oxides and phytohormones mitigate far-red light-induced inhibition of seed germination in broccoli (Brassica oleracea var. italica)
Abstract
Light quality is a critical environmental factor regulating seed germination through phytochrome-mediated signaling pathways. This study investigated the effects of light wavelengths, nanoparticles, plant growth regulators, and photoreversible light treatments on the germination of broccoli (Brassica oleracea var. italica) seeds under controlled laboratory conditions. Broccoli seeds exhibited markedly higher germination (95%) in complete darkness than under continuous white light (41.6%), indicating a negatively photoblastic response. Among different light wavelengths, red light significantly enhanced germination (75%), whereas far-red light strongly inhibited germination (15%). Blue and UV light resulted in intermediate germination rates of 48.3% and 50%, respectively. Under inhibitory far-red conditions, MgO and Fe2O3 nanoparticles substantially improved germination, with maximum values of 95.0% and 96.3%, respectively, at 0.05 mg mL-1. Higher concentrations reduced germination, suggesting concentration-dependent effects. Plant growth regulators also alleviated far-red-induced inhibition; gibberellic acid (GA3) was the most effective treatment, achieving 95% germination at 100 and 150 ppm, while kinetin reached a maximum of 91.3% at 100 ppm. Germination responses were strongly influenced by the timing and sequence of dark and far-red exposures. Extended dark periods prior to far-red exposure partially mitigated inhibitory effects, whereas prolonged initial far-red exposure progressively reduced germination. Photoreversibility experiments demonstrated that a brief red-light exposure following far-red treatment increased germination from 68.0% to 88.3%, confirming the central role of phytochrome in regulating seed germination. In conclusion, broccoli seed germination is highly regulated by phytochrome-mediated light signaling. Red light, GA3, and optimal concentrations of MgO and Fe2O3 nanoparticles effectively overcame far-red-induced inhibition and significantly enhanced germination.
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.33804/pp.010.03.6151
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