Role of nano-SiO2 in germination of tomato (Lycopersicum esculentum seeds Mill.)

Agricultural biotechnology is very familiar with the properties of nanomaterial and their potential uses. Therefore, the present experiment was conducted to test the beneficial effects of nanosilicon dioxide (nSiO(2): size- 12 nm) on the seed germination of tomato (Lycopersicum esculentum Mill. cv Super Strain B). Application of nSiO(2) significantly enhanced the characteristics of seed germination. Among the treatments, 8 g L-1 of nSiO(2) improved percent seed germination, mean germination time, seed germination index, seed vigour index, seedling fresh weight and dry weight. Therefore, it is very clear that nSiO(2) has a significant impact on the seed germination potential. These findings could provide that alternative source for fertilizer that may improve sustainable agriculture. (C) 2014 Production and hosting by Elsevier B.V. on behalf of King Saud University.