Journal of Plant Process and Function

The effects of magnetic fields (MF) on germination and early growth parameters, redox state and the activity of antioxidant system were investigated in soybean (Glycine max L. Merrill) seedlings. The seeds were imbibed in water and then were exposed to a 30 mT static magnetic field (SMF) and a 10 kHz electromagnetic field (EMF) for 4 days, each 5 h. Water uptake of seeds increased after 40 and 120 minutes of the treatment with MF. In comparison with the control group, exposure to EMF significantly increased germination percent of the seeds and vigor index I, II of seedlings while SMF significantly increased vigor index II but had no effect on seed germination. The ratio of fresh weight to dry weight and ferritin content of both MF-treated groups was significantly higher than those of the control group. Treatment with EMF improved radical scavenging capacity of seedlings and reduced membrane leakages. Exposure to MF also protected seedlings from the risk of increase of internal calcium content. The results provide us with a new approach for application of magnetic fields in order for growth promotion of strategic crops.