The effect of thyme essential oil on germination and early growth of wheat

Abstract

Essential oils (EOs) are becoming an important alternative as seed decontaminating agents opposite to synthetic seed preservatives due to their antimicrobial activities. They also inhibit seed germination which may be problematic for seeds of cultural plants. In the present study, different treatments of wheat (Triticum aestivum) grain with thyme (Thymus serpyllum) EO were tested. Wheat grains were treated with thyme EO for 6, 12 and 24 hours to determine the optimal time of EO treatment in order to reduce fungal infection of the grain surface and at the same time preserve high germination rate of seeds and good physiological status of seedlings during early stages of their growth. Germination rate, fresh mass and length of shoots and roots, and physiological status of the seedlings were compared according to the duration of the treatment. The 6 h-EO treatment was the most optimal procedure that did not affect seed germination, was not harmful for the seedlings and prevented fungal infections. The thyme EO could potentially be used as a protective agent for wheat grain intended for sowing and food production.