Factors that influence germination:
- Kind
- Quality in collection
- Conditions between collection and storage
- Storage conditions
Ideal storage conditions:
- Temperature: 0–5°C
- Relative humidity (RH): 25–30%
- Store in a cool, dry and dark place
- Avoid fluctuations in temperature and humidity
- Protect from light (opaque packaging or dark place)
Rules for seed storage:
- Harrington's rule:
- +1% moisture in seed = 50% shorter lifespan
- +6°C (10°F) temperature = 50% shorter lifespan
- James' rule (rule of 100):
- Temperature (°F) + RH (%) ≤ 100
Important when opening packaging:
- From cold storage → wait 24 hours before opening (to prevent condensation)
- Opened and put back in storage → Let stand for 24 hours so that moisture content can recover
NB:
- Treated seeds (coated, primed) have a shelf life of up to several months → sow directly