ABSTRACT
A magnetic field (MF) applied to dormant seeds was found to increase the rate of subsequent seedling growth of barley, corn, beans, wheat, certain tree fruits, and other tree species. Standardization of MF was done for maximum enhancement in germination characteristics of maize seeds. Increase in MF conditions may also affect secondary plant metabolism. A low-frequency magnetic field can be used as a method of post-harvest seed improvement for different plant species, especially for seeds of temperature sensitive species germinating at low temperatures. Pre-seed electromagnetic treatments have been used to minimize the drought-induced adverse effects on different crop plants. A permanent magnetic field induces significant changes in bean leaf fluorescence spectra and temperature. MF stimulated lipid synthesis in chloroplast, mitochondrial, and other cell membranes. The auxin-like effect of MF was also suggested to explain ripening of tomato fruits. Many physiological effects of high MF on plants described plant responses in terms of growth, development, photosynthesis, and redox status.
