| abstract |
The present invention consists in a method of improving germination of seeds which comprises adding the seeds to a solid-form superabsorbent polymer that has absorbed water, and treating the seeds for controlled hydration for a time and at a temperature sufficient to cause the seeds to imbibe sufficient water to enhance resultant plant vigor but insufficient to cause seeds sprouting, while supplying an oxygen-containing gas to the seed-medium mixture. In accordance with the present invention, solid medium particles will not remain adhering to the seeds, the seeds after hydration treatment can be dried with ease and, therefore, improved seeds capable of rapidly and uniformly germinating can be produced at low costs and on a commercial scale, without damaging the seeds. |