The germination-promoting effects of low-temperature plasma produced by dielectric barrier discharge on Lycium barbarum (L. barbarum) seeds and the optimal treatment process were investigated using a pin-plate dielectric barrier discharge plasma reactor. The distance between the fixed needle plate electrode and the sample liquid was 5 mm. The effects of dielectric barrier discharge plasma on L. barbarum seed germination were investigated at different discharge times, discharge voltages, and electrolyte types. In this single-factor experiment, the response surface was used to optimize a seed treatment protocol for L. barbarum, and the effect of dielectric barrier discharge plasma on seed coat structure and properties was investigated by observing seed coat morphology and measuring the contact angle. Under discharge conditions including a discharge time of 1 h, a 35 kV discharge voltage, and 150 mL of 0.2% aqueous Na₂SO₄, the germination rate of treated L. barbarum seeds was 86.67%, and that of untreated seeds was 33.33%, an increase of 53.34%. The treated seed vitality index was 600.58, and that of untreated seeds was 206.9, revealing an increase of 65.55%. After treatment, the seed coat became smooth, its texture was rough, and seed hydrophilicity was enhanced. This study provides a clean and efficient method to improve plant seed germination rates.