Effects of Artificial Ageing on Viability and Leachate Exudation in Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-grraecum L.) Seeds

The effects of environmental treatments to rapidly shorten seed viability in fenugreek (Trigonella foenumgrraecum L.) were explored. Seed germination capacity, seedling vigor (measured as radicle length), and seed leachate conductivity were measured in relation to the ageing process. Artificial ageing significantly reduced the final germination percentage and radicle length. Loss of viability and declining vigor were associated with increased solute leakage. Germination percentage was reduced up to 58% after 7 days of artificial ageing compared to the non-aged control (100%). Following artificial ageing, radicle length was reduced from 0.73 to 0.23 ㎝. The results indicated that a reduction in seed viability and vigor followed by membrane disruption might play a considerable role in deterioration of fenugreek seeds.