Influence of magnetopriming on germination, growth, physiology, oil and essential contents of cumin (Cuminum cyminum L.).

An environment friendly technique is desirable for enhancing of crop production. In this study, seeds of cumin (Cuminum cyminum L.) Yazd accession were treated with 0, 150 mT, 250 mT, 500 mT and 1 T magnetic field strengths for min and germination parameters were determined. All of the treatments improved germination parameters and seedling growth as compared with the control. However, 500 and 150 mT were the most effective treatments and thus selected for field studies. Seeds were exposed to 150 mT and 500 mT static magnetic field of strengths for 12 min, planted in the field during 2010-2012 in Isfahan, Iran. Static magnetic field treatment shortened the days to emergence, flowering and maturity, increased chlorophyll and reduced proline contents. Highest biological, seed and essential oil yield, oil content, and oil yield were recorded under 500 mT followed by 150 mT and control, respectively. The results suggested that the pretreatment of cumin seeds with static magnetic field can improve germination, growth and oil and essential contents of the cumin seed under the field.