Chapter 2
Effect of Seed Traits on Seedling Establishment of Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L.)
- By Ketan G. Kanjariya, Harshal E. Patil - 17 Dec 2025
- Advanced Studies in Plant Breeding, Volume: 1, Pages: 6 - 14
Abstract/Preface
Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L.) is a major cereal crop of the semi-arid tropics where successful crop production strongly depends on seed quality and rapid, uniform seedling establishment. This review synthesizes current research on sorghum seed biology and early seedling development. Considerable genetic variability has been reported among sorghum genotypes with respect to seed morphological traits, biochemical composition, and vigour-related parameters. Seedling establishment is significantly influenced by abiotic stresses, particularly soil crusting, drought, salinity, and temperature extremes. Several early seedling traits have been identified as important contributors to stress tolerance and are increasingly used as selection criteria in breeding programmes. The need to identify, develop, and deploy stress-tolerant genotypes is highlighted as a key strategy for improving sorghum performance under resource-limited environments. The review also discusses agronomic and seed management practices that enhance germination, emergence, and stand establishment, thereby contributing to improved productivity in semi-arid regions.