ORIGINAL ARTICLE

Comparative Analysis of Seed Germination Under Salinity Stress Induced by Neutral and Alkaline Salts

Salinity stress is a critical abiotic factor limiting seed germination and early seedling development, particularly in glycophytic species. This study assessed the effects of neutral (NaCl) and alkaline (NaHCO₃) salt stress on seed germination parameters in two crop species, Vigna unguiculata (cowpea) and Setaria italica (foxtail millet). Seeds were exposed to varying concentrations of NaCl and NaHCO₃ to evaluate germination percentage, radicle and plumule emergence, and overall seedling vigor. Both species exhibited significant reductions in germination and seedling growth under increasing salt concentrations, with NaHCO₃ exerting a more severe inhibitory effect than NaCl. This heightened inhibition is attributed to the elevated pH caused by alkaline salts, which further disrupts physiological processes critical for germination. While both species are inherently sensitive to salinity, Vigna unguiculata demonstrated comparatively higher tolerance, maintaining better germination rates and seedling growth under stress, indicating the presence of adaptive mechanisms such as osmotic adjustment or ion compartmentalization. These findings highlight the need for selecting salt-tolerant species and implementing effective salinity management practices to improve crop establishment and productivity in salt-affected regions.