Seed storage potential of population varieties and hybrid varieties and their breeding components in rye (Secale cereale L.)*

Abstract

Seeds of population varieties, hybrid varieties, cytogenetic male sterility (CMS) single cross lines and CMS inbred lines of rye (Secale cereale L.) were stored to determine the respective rates of germination loss with a view to their storage potential. The seeds were stored under controlled conditions at a seed moisture content of 14% and a temperature of 30°C for periods of up to 80 days. The storage potential decreased in the order: hybrid varieties > population varieties > CMS single cross lines > CMS inbred lines. However, the rates of germination loss showed no differences within the respective categories. The inferences drawn for seed storage potential hold for seed vigour potential.