This book provides a comprehensive introduction to seed priming—a simple and effective method to improve seed germination and crop performance. Seed priming involves treating seeds before sowing to enhance their growth potential, improve yield, and increase resistance to environmental stress.

The chapters cover a wide range of priming techniques, beginning with the basics of seed priming and moving into specific methods such as hydropriming (including the use of hydrogen-rich water), halopriming, osmopriming, and chemical priming. The book also explores biological methods like bacterial and fungal priming, as well as hormonal and nutrient-based treatments. Emerging approaches such as nano-priming, solid matrix priming, and the use of physical methods—including thermal, magnetic, ultrasonic, electrical, and light-based priming are discussed in detail.

Each chapter highlights how these techniques influence seed performance, plant growth, and tolerance to stress factors like drought, salinity, heat, and diseases. The book also discusses practical challenges in applying these techniques in real-world agricultural systems.

This book is a useful resource for students, researchers, and professionals in plant science, agronomy, horticulture, and sustainable agriculture. It will also benefit seed technologists and extension workers involved in improving crop productivity through innovative yet practical seed treatment methods.

Dr. Harmanjit Kaur is currently serving as Assistant Professor in the Department of Botany at the University of Allahabad, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, India. Prior to this, she completed her Ph.D. from Panjab University, Chandigarh, and held several research fellowships. She stood first throughout her academic career, earning multiple awards and a gold medal in her M.Sc. Her research interests include plant stress physiology and plant–microbe interactions. She has been honored with several recognitions, including the Young Scientist Award and best paper presentation awards at both international and national conferences.

Dr. Sudhakar Srivastava is an Assistant Professor at the Institute of Environment and Sustainable Development, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India. He holds a Ph.D. in Botany from the University of Lucknow and has previously worked at CSIR-NBRI, Lucknow, and Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Mumbai. His expertise lies in plant responses to environmental stress, especially arsenic toxicity and phytoremediation. Dr. Srivastava has received several national and international awards, including the Platinum Jubilee Young Scientist Award and recognition among the top 2% scientists globally. He has an extensive record of peer-reviewed publications and editorial contributions.