Post-germination effects of the smoke-derived compound 3-methyl-2H-furo[2,3-c]pyran-2-one, and its potential as a preconditioning agent

The newly identified compound from plant-derived smoke, 3-methyl-2H-furo[2,3-c]pyran-2-one (butenolide), is generating much interest in seed biology. The present study reports on the effects of this new butenolide on the germination, and post-germination, of seeds of three vegetable crops (tomato, okra and bean) and maize. Seeds of all the vegetable crops showed a significant improvement (p < 0.05) in seedling vigour and growth in comparison to controls when treated with this compound. Results showed that the butenolide-treated (10−7 M) maize kernels achieved better percentage germination with higher vigour indices than untreated kernels. Eight-day-old butenolide and smoke water-treated maize seedlings developed more roots in comparison to the control seedlings. Maize seeds soaked in a solution of butenolide (10−7 M) for an hour prior to planting, significantly improved root and shoot fresh and dry weights after 30 days. The number of leaves, shoot height and percentage survival were also greater in butenolide-treated plants. Although this compound was previously isolated for its effective promotion of germination, studies now show that this smoke-derived compound exhibits dynamic stimulatory effects at post-germination levels, and could be used as a plant growth promoter. Furthermore, results from these experiments suggest the possible use of 3-methyl-2H-furo[2,3-c]pyran-2-one as a seed priming or preconditioning agent for better stand establishment of maize plants.