Effect of Magnetic Field on Seed Germination, Growth and Yield of Sweet Pepper (Capsicum annuum L.)

A study was carried out to understand the effect of magnetic field on the seed germination, growth, yield and fruit quality of sweet pepper (Capsicum annuum L.). Pepper seeds or irrigated water (separately or together) were passed through a magnetic funnel. Percent germination rate, growth and yield parameters of treated and non-treated pepper plants were recorded. Germination of all treated seeds began one day earlier than that of non-treated seeds and the germination percentage increased by 33.7-44.9% in treated seeds related to the control. Growth and flowering parameters were significantly increased in the treated plants comparing to the control. Fruit quality parameters were also enhanced by magnetic treatment while the fruit length, fruit diameter and pericarp thickness were not significantly affected. Leaf contents of chlorophyll a and b, caroteniods and phosphorus were significantly affected by the magnetic field. In addition, fruit concentrations of phosphorus and vitamin C were also increased. The obtained results indicated that magnetic field is an effective method for the pre-sowing treatment of the seeds that enhance their germination and increase yield capacity and fruit quality.