Can Bulk and Nanosized Titanium Dioxide Particles Improve Seed Germination Features of Wheatgrass (Agropyron desertorum)

The goal of this study was to evaluate concentrations of nanosized TiO 2 at 0, 5, 20, 40, 60 and 80 mg L -1 with bulk TiO 2 for possible stimulatory effects on wheatgrass seed germination and early growth stage. After 14 days of seed incubation, germination percentage improved by 9% following exposure to 5 ppm nanosized TiO 2 treatment comparing to control. Similar positive effects occurred in terms of germination value and mean daily germination. Application of bulk TiO 2 particles in 80 ppm concentration greatly decreased the majority of studied traits. Therefore phytotoxicity effect observed on wheatgrass seedling by application of bulk TiO 2 particles in 80 ppm concentration. Exposure of wheatgrass seeds to 5 ppm nanosized TiO 2 and bulk and nanosized TiO 2 at 60 ppm obtained the lowest mean germination time but higher concentrations did not improve mean germination time. In general, there was a positive response by wheatgrass seed to some concentrations of nanosized TiO 2 . Usage of nanoparicles in order to improve germination and establishment of range plant in adverse environments similar to rangeland could be possible.