The effect of carbon nanotubes, calcium chloride and potassium nitrate on germination traits of Iranian Oak seed (Quercus brantii)

Extended Abstract Introduction: Iranian oak has the largest forest habitat in the country and has a high position in terms of economy and protection. Recent studies have confirmed the positive effects of carbon nanotubes on the germination and organ growth of herbaceous and woody species. Nanotechnology is an evolving field in all periods of human life and various research is done to use nanomaterials in different fields. Nanotechnology can provide a good medium for the production of plants with suitable characteristics or provide better growth conditions for plants. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of carbon nanotube treatments, calcium chloride 1% and potassium nitrate 1% on the germination traits of Iranian oak seed (Quercus brantii Lindl). Materials and Methods: Treatments included carbon nanotubes at five levels (concentrations of 10, 25, 50, 75, and 100 mg/l) for six hours, 1% calcium chloride for 48 hours, potassium nitrate for hours 24 hours and control treatment, which were primed without using any materials and germination traits were tested on them. Results: According to the results, carbon nanotubes affected germination traits, so that Iranian oak seeds at a concentration of 75 mg/l had the highest germination percentage and rate, and primed seeds with a concentration of 100 mg/l had the highest mean germination time. The lowest germination percentage, speed and mean germination time were related to control seeds. Conclusion: The results showed that carbon nanotubes with 75 mg/l had the most positive effect on germination traits. Therefore, from an economic point of view, the use of this concentration is recommended for priming oak seeds. Highlights: The germination characteristics of Iranian oak seeds were investigated using carbon nanotubes. The effect of osmopriming and nanopriming on the germination of Iranian oak seeds was compared.