Influence of seed density classification on emergence and seedling traits in rice (Oryza sativa L.)

This study reports on the different densities of seed and their influence on some emergence and seedling traits in a group of ten rice genotypes. The germination performance of rice seeds with four classes of seed densities was evaluated. Shoot length, fresh shoot weight, fresh root weight, and dry shoot weight appeared to be proportional to the seed densities. Emergence percentage, shoot length, fresh shoot weight, fresh root weight and dry shoot weight were maximum at seed density of class I (pure water). Root length and dry root weight were maximum at seed density of class III (20 g Na CI/1000 ml of water). Seedlings from seeds of density class III and IV performed best for almost all characters observed. Selection of rice seeds on basis of density classification should, therefore, be done so that the light weight but high density seed are separated from the low density seeds.