Nuti-priming for enhancing seed germination of Prosopis cineraria for afforestation of deserts

Ghaf (Prosopis cineraria L.) is a multipurpose tree indigenous to the hot deserts of the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Ghaf seeds are not often germinating in the field, and it is difficult to propagate the tree vegetatively. The current investigation focused on priming ghaf seeds with ZnO nanoparticles to improve germination rates and enhanced nutrient content through sustainable seed priming treatment. The obtained results revealed a significant enhancement in seed germination rate and percentage. Among the treatments, ZnO 500 ng mL^-1 stands out, exhibiting the highest germination rate at 93%. The mineral analysis indicates dose-dependent alterations in germination rate, emphasizing ZnO 500 ng mL^-1 role in elevating potassium, calcium, phosphorus, iron, as well as zinc in specific. Micronutrient concentrations generally align with recommended values. These findings highlight the potential of ZnO nano priming, particularly ZnO 500 ng mL^-1, for promoting seed germination and plant growth in an eco-friendly and sustainable strategy. This treatment will lead to produce more native ghaf trees for sustainable farming and afforestation of deserts for ecological restoration biodiversity.