Evaluation of Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) for Seed Quality Parameters
Satyam Gautam
Department of Seed Science and Technology, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Bundelkhand University, Jhansi (U.P.), India.
Mousmi Syed *
Department of Seed Science and Technology, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Bundelkhand University, Jhansi (U.P.), India.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
The present investigation was carried out during 2024–2025 at the laboratories and Organic Research Farm, Karguanji, Department of Seed Science and Technology, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Bundelkhand University, Jhansi. To evaluate the efficacy of seed viability and vigour tests of standard germination and field emergence, and to assess the variability among different barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) genotypes for seed quality parameters. A total of twenty genotypes were analysed using standard protocols with three replications under controlled and field conditions. Observations were recorded on standard germination, seedling length, seedling dry weight, seed weight, seed density, vigour index I and II, field emergence index, seedling establishment, and mean emergence time. Statistical analysis was performed as per the method described by Panse and Sukhatme (1967). The results revealed significant variation among genotypes for all studied traits, indicating substantial genetic diversity. Among the evaluated genotypes, BH 393, BH 942, and RD 2552 exhibited superior performance across most parameters, whereas PL 751 and BH 932 were consistently ranked lower. The findings highlight the importance of seed vigour and viability assessments in predicting field performance and aid in selecting superior genotypes for barley improvement and seed production programs.
Keywords: Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.), seed quality, seed vigour, germination percentage, field emergence, Vigour index, genetic variability