Surface sterilization of sunflower seeds in laboratory conditions

Abstract

Surface sterilization of sunflower seeds (Helianthus annuus L.) is challenging due to their morphological characteristics. The rough and porous surface of the seeds promotes microbial adhesion, significantly complicating the disinfection process. This study comprehensively evaluates the effectiveness of various chemical agents used for surface sterilization: ethanol (C₂H₆O), hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂), potassium permanganate (KMnO₄), sodium hypochlorite (NaClO), silver nitrate (AgNO₃), and their combinations. The results showed that most of the tested substances, including ethanol (70–96%), hydrogen peroxide (1–3%), potassium permanganate (0.5–1%), and sodium hypochlorite (1–15%), do not ensure complete seed sterility, regardless of concentration and exposure time. Silver nitrate demonstrated the greatest effectiveness in eliminating surface contamination. At concentrations of 1–5% and a treatment time of 7–15 minutes, this agent completely inhibited microbial growth without significantly reducing seed viability. However, in some experimental variants, partial damage to the seedling root system was observed, indicating the need for precise sterilization parameters.
This study confirms that sunflower seeds require an individualized approach when developing sterilization protocols, balancing disinfection effectiveness with the preservation of the physiological characteristics of the seeds. The obtained data are of practical value for phytopathological, microbiological, and biotechnological research requiring sterile plant material. The results of this study can be used to optimize pre-sowing seed treatment methods in laboratory and industrial settings, as well as to develop new methods for disinfecting seeds with high microbial loads.