Pengembangan Metode Uji Cepat Vigor Benih Kedelai dengan Pemunculan Radikula

Abstract

Seed vigor test to evaluate seed quality requires a faster, more precise, and simple method. Radicle emergence (RE) is a rapid vigor testing method that has been validated by International Rules for Seed Testing since 2014 on maize seeds. The objective of this research was to develop an RE method test as a rapid vigor test on soybean seeds. The experiments were conducted at the Seed Storage and Testing Laboratory, and Sawah Baru Experimental Station, IPB University, Bogor, from November 2018 to March 2019. The RE experiment was arranged in a randomized completely block design (RCBD) with repeated measurement in a split-plot design, using ten varieties as the main-plot and seven times of observation as the sub-plot. The RCBD with one factor (variety) were used for laboratory and field experiments. Determination of observation time for radicle emergence test was done from 36 through 48 hours after sowing with 2 hours interval. Results of the RE test were then correlated with other vigor tests, normal germination, and seedling vigor in the field. The results showed that the RE test on soybean seeds of ten varieties with different vigor levels (classified by vigor index) using top of paper germinating method at 25 ± 2 °C and observed after 42 hours ± 15 minutes was closely correlated and could predict the normal germination, vigor index, speed of germination, mean germination time, field emergence, and mean emergence time. Therefore, RE can be used as a rapid vigor test for soybean seeds.

Keywords: field emergence, mean emergence time, mean germination time, normal germination percentage