Effects of Microwave Energy on the Strophiole, Seed Coat and Germination of Acacia Seeds

Abstract

Germination of Acacia longifolia and A. sophorae is enhanced by microwave energy at 2450 MHz. The technique provides a quick and effective method of treatment for seeds (either dry or moist) having an impermeable seed coat. Microwave energy causes the strophiole to appear golden and well defined under the microscope and to become permeable to water. The strophiolar fracture and the observed cracks on a treated seed coat could be explained by the thin shell theory used in structural analysis. The difference in germination rate of the two Acacias may be related to the differences in the mechanical strength of their seed coats and the way they responded to the dry and moist heat.