Screening of horse gram genotypes for seed longevity

Abstract

Seed longevity studies in horse gram revealed that straw colored seed coat was reported by maximum (47.82%) number of genotypes. Based on two years of study, it can be concluded that light straw testa genotypes had high germination %, besides possessing bold seed with high speed of germination, maximum dry matter production, seedling vigour index II and seedling growth rate. HG 14, HG 32 and Palem 2 from the light straw testa category, HG 52 from black testa category, HG 15 and HG 11 from straw testa group are considered to be good storers coupled with high vigour and bold seededness. Though the genotypes i.e., HG 59 and HG 18 recorded < 95% germination, HG 59 was more vigorous in terms of speed of germination, dry matter production, seedling vigour index II and seedling growth rate. While, HG 18 was bold and vigorous w.r.t. to speed of germination, seedling length and seedling vigour index I.