EFFECT OF PACKAGING AND STORAGE TEMPERATURES ON LONGEVITY OF CARROT SEEDS

Abstract

Carrot seeds cv Nantes were stored at ambient, SoC and -20°C. Seeds with
seven per cent moisture were packed in paper, glass, polyethylene aluminium
foil laminated pouches and viability, vigour and longevity were studied. Seeds
remained viable for two years. The process of seed deterioration was faster
and greater at ambient storage. The initial viability was maintained at SoC and
-20°C storage. Polyethylene and paper bags were effective in retaining high
seed viability at SoC and suitable for the medium term storage. The aluminium
foil laminated bags maintained high viability and seedling vigour at -20°C thus
effective for long term conservation of invaluable germplasm