Evaluating The Impact Of Storage Duration And Storage Containers On Seed Quality And Viability Of Raphanus Sativus

Raphanus sativus, a crucial root vegetable in Bangladesh, faces challenges in sustainable production due to inadequate knowledge of optimal seed storage conditions. This study aimed to identify ideal storage conditions for Raphanus sativus seeds, conducted at the Seed Technology Laboratory of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Agricultural University, Gazipur, from April to June, 2024. A Completely Randomized Design with three replications was employed, examining five storage durations (before storage, 15, 30, 45, and 60 days) and two container types (plastic containers and cloth bags). Results indicated that seeds stored in cloth bags had significantly higher moisture content compared to those in plastic containers, irrespective of storage period. Conversely, seeds in plastic containers showed a significantly higher germination percentage. Thousand seed weight (TSW), abnormal seedling proportion, and dead seedlings were notably higher in cloth bags. Seeds in plastic containers exhibited superior germination index, shoot and root lengths, seedling dry weight, and Seed Vigor Index (SVI-I). TSW, the proportion of abnormal seedlings, dead seedlings, and electrical conductivity (EC) all increased significantly with longer storage periods, whereas the germination index, root and shoot lengths, seedling dry weight, and SVI-I decreased. The highest Seedling Vigor Index (SVI-II) was observed at 15 days after sowing (DAS) in plastic containers, and the lowest at 60 DAS in cloth bags. Electrical conductivity was lowest at 15 DAS in plastic containers, and highest at 60 DAS in cloth bags. Regression analysis demonstrated that increased moisture content and higher electrical conductivity significantly reduced germination percentage. The study concludes that plastic containers are the optimal storage solution for Raphanus sativus seeds over extended periods, while cloth bags are the least effective.