A study of the influence of storage environment on seed deterioration in maize (Zea mays)
1993
Khan, I. (Agricultural Research Inst., Tarnab (Pakistan)) | Hill, M.J. (Massy Univ. (New Zealand). Seed Technology Centre) | Penemore, P.G. (Massy Univ. (New Zealand). Dept. of Horticulture)
Seed of maize variety XL-45 was adjusted to three different initial moisture contents (12.4, 15.1 and 18.5%) and stored under four different environment (20 deg. C-40% RH, 20deg. C-65% RH and 30 deg. C-40% RH and 30 deg. C-65% RH) for 20 weeks. Sampling was carried out after 2, 4, 6, 8, 12, 16 and 20 weeks storage. Measurements of seed moisture content and germination were carried out at each sampling time. The changes in initial seed moisture content in response to the relative humidity level in the storage environment were rapid. All seed samples reached equilibrium moisture contents (E.M.C) within the first four weeks of storage irrespective of initial moisture level. Equilibrium moisture content in all cases was below 15% considered safe for short term storage of maize. In environment involving a 40% level of humidity, no extensive reduction in germination percentage generally occurred. However, relatively small drop in germination capacity was observed late in the storage period in the most extreme combination (initial moisture content 18.5%, 30 deg. C, 65% RH storage environment, 16-20 weeks storage)
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