Seed Storage Definition
Seed storage may be defined as the seed conservation method obtained from the harvest until they are planted for successful crop production. The seeds are required to be conserved through proper storage for a short or long period. During seed storage, moisture is controlled correctly for the protection of deterioration.
Purposes of seed storage
- The purpose of seed storage is to maintain the seed in good physical and physiological condition from the time they are harvested until the time they are planted.
- To protect seeds from insects, pests, and diseases.
- To conserve seeds until they germinate for subsequent crop production.
Importance of seed storage
- It increases crop yield.
- To get good plant stands in addition to healthy and vigorous plants.
- It decreases the seed-borne disease due to changes in local climate at storage.
Conditions of seed storage
- Seed storage aims to maintain its germination capacity more stringent conditions are required than those to conserve the nutritional or industrial quality of seed.
- During storage, some of the germination capacity is lost slowly or rapidly, depending on storage conditions.
- The store temperature and moisture will be low for dry seed storage at 10°C and relative humidity at 50%.