Abstract:

To study the effects of seed priming with solutions of Fe and B, each at concentrations of 0.5%, 1%, 1.5%, and 2%, and 1.5% Fe + 1% B, on the germination and yield of dill (Anethum graveolens), 2 separate laboratory and field experiments were conducted. The results of the laboratory experiments indicated that the effect of the studied treatments on the final germination percentage was significant. The seedling vigor index of dill was restricted when the Fe and B concentrations increased beyond 1.5% and 1%, respectively. The highest seed yield was recorded for the concentration of 1.5% Fe + 1% B in solution, which produced nearly 20% greater yield than the control. The essential oil concentration of the seeds ranged from 2.60% for 0.5% Fe to 2.81% for 1.5% B for the priming solutions. There was a positive response to seed priming with Fe and B regarding the essential oil yield. Priming dill seeds in the 1.5% Fe + 1% B solution resulted in a further increase in dill yield.

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