Effect of Biosynthesized Silver and Zinc Nanoparticles on Germination of Capparis spinosa L. Seeds

Abstract

This study investigates the effects of silver and zinc oxide nanoparticles—biosynthesized 
from lemon peel and pomegranate rind, respectively—on the germination of Capparis spinosa L. seeds. 
The experiments evaluated various soaking durations, both with and without prior water pre-soaking. 
Results revealed that direct exposure to nanoparticle solutions without pre-soaking in water completely 
inhibited germination, regardless of the soaking duration. Conversely, pre-soaking seeds in water for 48 
hours, with periodic water renewal, was found to be a critical prerequisite for initiating germination. 
Short-term exposure (5–15 minutes) to nanoparticle solutions following water pre-soaking significantly 
enhanced germination rates, particularly with zinc oxide nanoparticles, which showed a marked increase 
in germination percentage, peaking at 15 minutes. In contrast, silver nanoparticles exhibited limited 
stimulatory effects, with germination rates plateauing after 10 minutes. Long-term exposure (1–3 days) 
to both nanoparticle types resulted in seed swelling without germination, likely due to physiological 
toxicity from nanoparticle accumulation. These findings highlight the importance of optimizing 
nanoparticle type, concentration, and exposure duration, as well as the necessity of water pre-soaking, to 
achieve optimal germination outcomes. Further research is recommended to explore the influence of 
nanoparticle shape and size on seed physiological responses.