[Objective] To find a processing method to increase germination rate of Wada alfalfa seeds. [Method] Five processing methods were used to treat Wada alfalfa seeds, including immersion in hot water, immersion in 98% concentrated sulfuric acid, immersion in 100 g/L potassium nitrate, immersion in hot water after rubbing seed capsule, immersion in 30% (V/V) hydrogen peroxide. After treatment, germination energy, germination rate, germination index and vitality index were detected. [Result] The Wada alfalfa seeds immersed in 25°C water for 25 min after rubbing seed capsule had the highest germination rate (81.3%), followed by that of seeds immersed in 100 g/L potassium nitrate for 2 h, that of seeds immersed in 50°C water, and that of seeds immersed in 30% hydrogen peroxide for 5 min in order. The worst germination appeared in the seeds immersed in 98% concentrated sulfuric acid. [Conclusion] Immersion in 25°C water for 25 min after rubbing seed capsule is the best method to increase germination rate of Wada alfalfa seeds.
