<p>Maize (<i>Zea mays</i> L.) is an important agricultural crop with a wide range of applications in food, industry, and livestock. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of different concentrations of salicylic acid on seed germination and seedling growth of maize, as well as to assess the protective potential of hormonal priming with salicylic acid under conditions of increased salinity. The results showed that the effect of salicylic acid depends on its concentration and the investigation of parameters. A stimulatory effect of salicylic acid on seed germination, vigor index, photosynthetic potential, and antioxidant defense mechanisms of maize seedlings was confirmed, as well as its protective influence under salt stress conditions. The highest protective effect under salt stress was observed at concentrations of 10⁻⁴ and 10⁻⁵ M, with respect to seed germination and growth characteristics. On the other hand, concentrations of 10⁻² and 10⁻³ M had a more pronounced effect on physiological and biochemical parameters. The application of hormopriming with 10⁻³ M SA achieved the most favorable effect on the increase in chlorophyll and carotenoid concentrations, while 10⁻² M SA resulted in the highest concentrations of secondary metabolites and total antioxidant capacity. Based on the obtained results, moderate and lower concentrations of salicylic acid (10^− 4/10^− 5 M) can be recommended for improving germination and seedling growth, while higher concentrations (10^− 2 M) improved maize resistance to abiotic stress, which could contribute to the enhancement of agricultural practices and provide a basis for further research on plant adaptation.</p>