The effect of biosynthesised silver nanoparticles of yarrow ( Achillea filipendulina ) on germination and early seedling growth of thyme ( Thymus vulgaris )

This study investigated the effect of biosynthesised silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) from Achillea filipendulina on Thymus vulgaris seed germination. Characterisation of the synthesised AgNPs was performed using UV-Vis spectroscopy, which showed a peak at 450 nm, and TEM analysis, revealing spherical particles sized 30-50 nm. The experiment was conducted in a completely randomised design with four replications (25 seeds per replication) and four concentrations (0, 10, 50 and 100 mM). All measured germination parameters including germination percentage, mean daily germination and root length were significantly improved by AgNP treatments ( p < 0.05). Among the treatments, 10 mM AgNPs showed optimal effectiveness in improving both germination and early seedling growth characteristics. These findings suggest that pretreatment with 10 mM green-synthesised AgNPs can be effectively used to enhance the germination process of T. vulgaris .