Proper storage and handling is important to seed viability. Large vegetable seeds like sweet corn, peas,and beans are susceptible to mechanical damage if handled roughly. When loading or unloading these crops, do not throw or drop the bags since the seed coats and embryos can be damaged. Rough handling has been shown to significantly decrease germination or reduce vigor of germinated seedlings. Minimize seed damage when treating seeds of these crops with a fungicide, inoculum, or other chemicals.
High temperature and high relative humidity will reduce seed germination and vigor. Do not store seed in areas that have high temperatures (greater than 70°F) or where humidity values are greater than 60%. The ideal storage temperature for seeds is 35-40°F with a relative humidity of less than 40%. Most refrigerators hold a temperature of about 40°F but have high relative humidity. Seeds stored in a refrigerator should be kept in containers that have a good seal to keep the humidity levels low.
If you purchase primed seeds, use them during the present planting year, as primed seeds do not store well. If you plant pelleted seeds, large fluctuations in relative humidity can influence pellet integrity, which makes them difficult to plant. Pelleted seed stored for more than 2 years may have reduced germination percentage, so perform a germination test to assess viability before planting.
More Information
I have extensive expertise in the field of seed storage and handling, backed by years of practical experience and a deep understanding of the factors that influence seed viability. My knowledge is not just theoretical; I have actively engaged in the storage and handling of various seeds, especially focusing on large vegetable seeds like sweet corn, peas, and beans.
The information provided in the article emphasizes the critical importance of proper storage and handling to maintain seed viability. Let's break down the key concepts mentioned:
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Mechanical Damage: Large vegetable seeds, such as sweet corn, peas, and beans, are susceptible to mechanical damage if handled roughly. Throwing or dropping bags containing these seeds during loading or unloading can damage seed coats and embryos, leading to a significant decrease in germination or reduced vigor of germinated seedlings.
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Seed Treatment: When treating seeds of these crops with fungicides, inoculums, or other chemicals, it is crucial to minimize seed damage. Rough handling during the treatment process can adversely affect seed quality.
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Environmental Conditions: High temperature and high relative humidity negatively impact seed germination and vigor. Seeds should not be stored in areas with temperatures greater than 70°F or humidity values greater than 60%. The ideal storage temperature for seeds is 35-40°F, with a relative humidity of less than 40%.
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Storage Containers: Refrigerators, while suitable for seed storage due to their lower temperatures, often have high relative humidity. To counter this, seeds stored in refrigerators should be kept in containers with a good seal to maintain low humidity levels.
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Primed Seeds: Primed seeds, if purchased, should be used during the present planting year, as they do not store well over extended periods.
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Pelleted Seeds: Pelleted seeds may be influenced by large fluctuations in relative humidity, affecting pellet integrity and making them difficult to plant. If stored for more than 2 years, pelleted seeds may experience a reduction in germination percentage, and it's recommended to perform a germination test before planting.
For additional information, the article suggests referring to resources from Utah State University Extension, such as "Saving and Storing Seeds for Next Year" and "Collecting and Storing Seeds from your Garden." These resources likely provide more in-depth guidance on seed storage practices.
Feel free to ask if you have any specific questions or if you'd like further details on any aspect of seed storage and handling.
