Optimizing the boron seed coating treatments for improving the germination and early seedling growth of fine grain rice

Boron (B) is an essential micronutrient for rice growth and development. This experiment was conducted to explore the potential of seed coating with B for improving the germination and early seedling growth of fine grain rice. Seeds of two fine grain aromatic rice cultivars viz. Super Basmati and Shaheen Basmati were coated with B at 1.0, 1.5, 2, 2.5 and 3.0 g B kg ^-1 seed; while seeds without coating were taken as control. Boron seed coating with 1-2 g B kg ^-1 seed improved the germination energy, germination index and final germination percentage in both the tested cultivars. None of seed coating treatments improve the radicle length and leaf score; however plumule length, number of secondary roots and seedling fresh and dry weights were improved by seed coating with 2 g B kg ^-1 seed in both cultivars. Increasing B concentration beyond 2 g B kg ^-1 seed was toxic for seeds of both cultivars. In conclusion, rice seeds may be coated with B at 2 g B kg ^-1 seed to improve the germination and early seedling growth of fine grain aromatic rice.