Seed Halo-Priming Improves Seedling Vigor, Grain Yield, and Water Use Efficiency of Maize under Varying Irrigation Regimes

Water-deficit stress poses tremendous constraints to sustainable agriculture, particularly under abrupt climate change. Hence, it is crucial find eco-friendly approaches ameliorate drought tolerance, especially for sensitive crops such as maize. This study aimed at assessing the impact of seed halo-priming on seedling vigor, grain yield, and water use efficiency maize various irrigation regimes. Laboratory trials evaluated influence using two concentrations sodium chloride solution, 4000 8000 ppm NaCl, versus unprimed seeds germination vigor parameters. Field investigated treatments yield (WUE) four regimes comprising excessive (120% estimated crop evapotranspiration, ETc), normal (100% deficit (80 60% ETc) Over-irrigation by 20% did not produce significantly more but considerably reduced WUE. Deficit 60%ETc) gradually its attributes. Halo-priming treatments, improved uniformity speed, increased percentage index, produced vigorous seedlings with heavier dry weight compared seeds. Under field conditions, plants originated from halo-primed seeds, had higher WUE The long-lasting memory induced halo-priming, promoted establishment, consequently mitigated devastating impacts stress.