DNA synthesis and mitotic activity in germinating wheat seeds aged under various conditions

Wheat seeds of different viability and germination rate were obtained by an accelerated ageing technique involving interdependent combinations of seed moisture content and storage temperature. Ageing was accompanied by a progressive reduction in the rate of DNA synthesis (measured as [6-3H]thymidine incorporation in embryonic tissues) and cell division activity. Significant correlations were established for values of viability and mean germination time (as an indicator of germination rate) with the investigated metabolic activities. The results suggest a test for monitoring the germination performance of stored wheat seed lots.