| 摘要 |
<p>A method for treating plant seed is provided comprising contacting them with a first surface of semi-permeable membrane (2) having first and second surfaces, the second surface being in direct contact with a solution of predetermined osmotic potential (5), whereby the seeds (6) abstract water from the solution through the membrane (2), wherein the seed (6) and semi-permeable membrane (2) are constantly or periodically caused to move relative to each other such as to constantly or periodically reorient the seed (6) with respect to the first surface such that the transfer of water occurs evenly over substantially the entire surface area of the seed. For seed priming the osmotic pressure and the period for which the seeds (6) are maintained in contact with the membrane (2) are sufficient to allow pre-germinative metabolic processes to take place within the seeds up to a level limited to that immediately preceding radicle emergence. Methods for germinating seed and inducing desiccation tolerance in seed are also provided. Preferably the semi-permeable membrane (2) is provided in the form of a tube of circular or polygonal cross section which is rotated with the seeds (6) on its inner surface and the solution retained between its outer surface and a further body to which the membrane is sealed in a watertight manner.</p> |
