Effects of storage temperature and container type on the vigour of Welsh onion seeds with low moisture content

Abstract

Summary. The vigour of Welsh onion (Allium fistulosum L.) seeds with low moisture content was determined after exposure to different storage temperatures and container types. As the storage period was prolonged, the effects of storage temperature and container type on seed vigour became more pronounced. Storage temperature had a greater effect on seed vigour than container types, and the effect of the latter was subject to the storage temperature. When the seeds were stored in the same type of container, several indices of the seed vigour declined as the storage temperature increased. A highly significant positive correlation was evident between dehydrogenase activity and the percentage germination of the seed. Improving storage conditions could prolong seed longevity. If the seeds, in which the moisture content has been reduced to less than 6%, are stored airtight, the percentage germination will be about 85% after storage for 2 years at room temperature or after 3-year storage at 6°C. If the seeds are stored at –6°C, the percentage germination will range from 86 to 91% after 3-year storage, regardless of the storage container types in this study. These data are very important for the seed storage and germplasm conservation of Welsh onion.