The present research was carried out to evaluate the germination of Hyola 401 Hybrid canola seeds and seedling growth under manitol-induced water stress. Germination (first and final count); seedling vigor classification; speed of germination; primary root and hypocotyl length; seedling dry weight and average growth rate tests were performed in manitol solutions plus 0.2% of Vitavax-Thiram fungicide at the osmotic potentials of 0 (control); -0.25; -0.5; -1.0; and -1.5MPa. Results showed that lower (more negative) osmotic potentials reduced significantly seed germination and seedling growth. First and final counts of germination, seedling dry biomass and seedling relative growth rate were affected in the same proportion as the concentration of osmotic solutions increased. The -1.0MPa osmotic potential level was considered critical to seed germination.
Brassica napus; osmotic potential; physiological quality
