Physiology of Oil Seeds. X. Seed Quality of Peanut Genotypes as Affected by Ambient Storage Temperature1

Abstract

Abstract Proper storage of peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) pods following drying is a critical step in maintenance of seed quality for the next planting season. The objective of this study was to examine the effect of ambient storage temperature (similar to farmers stock peanuts stored in warehouses) on seed germination and seedling vigor of selected peanut genotypes. Peanuts were grown in the field for three successive seasons. Pods were harvested, dried, and shelled. Seed samples were taken for storage under ambient conditions, humidity effects were eliminated by storing the seeds in plastic freezer bags in sealed containers. Seasons were: (1) 1986, 19 months storage at ambient temperature, (2) 1987, 7 months storage at ambient temperature, and (3) 1988, seeds without storage. When comparisons were made among genotypes within seasons, exposure to Season 1 conditions resulted in the least germination and seedling growth, but a wide range of genotype diversity occurred. Germination of seeds from Seasons 2 and 3 ranged from 81 to 98%, and significant differences in seedling growth occurred among genotypes. When comparisons were made across Seasons, the data indicated a significant storage effect, which resulted in different seed quality for individual genotypes. Usually field emergence was significantly different among genotypes and was highly correlated with germination for all seasons. Generally, emergence was negatively correlated with slow seedling growth and positively correlated with rapid seedling growth. Thus, for seeds of lower vigor (Seasons 1 and 2), rapid seedling growth was particularly critical for early, uniform emergence (10 DAP) in the field. Genotypes were significantly different in extent of seed quality reduction and field emergence both within and across storage periods. Genotype diversity to ambient storage conditions suggests there is genetic potential to improve longevity of seed quality during storage and enhance stability of field emergence.