Methods of seed treatment with one or more jasmonates are described. One method comprises exposing a seed to a formulation containing methyl dihydrojasmonate (MDHJ) at an amount and duration effective for improving a germination characteristic of the seed. Another method comprises exposing a seed to a formulation containing MDHJ at an amount and duration effective for improving a stress tolerance characteristic of the seed. Seeds comprising an effective amount of MDHJ for improving a germination or stress tolerance characteristic are also described.
