Abstract: Using the method of hypertonic solution PEG-6000 simulated soil moisture stress, the effects of seed germination bed types and soaking time on drought resistance identification were studied at seed germination stage in maize. And using sand culture method and non-seed soaking, the drought resistance of 32 maize hybrids which were authorized in recent years in the Huang-huaihai Plain Area was identified and evaluated. The results showed that: the germination rates under 20% PEG osmotic stress in paper germination bed were lower than(or equal to) 25%, well below sand germination bed method. The overall performance of non-seed soaking germination rate was better than the other two seed soaking treatments under sand culture method. The germination rate of 32 maize hybrids was reduced differently degree under osmotic stress of sand culture and non-seed soaking method; the number of primary root was reduced for most maize hybrids, the embryo bud length was shortened to a more degree than embryo root length, and the dry weight of embryo bud decreased significantly.

Key words: Maize, Seed germination stage, Drought resistance, Comparison

CLC Number: 

• S513.01