RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN STORAGE DURATION AND QUALITY INDICATORS OF COTTON SEEDS
Keywords:
Cotton seed, storage duration, seed quality, germination, viability, physiological aging, biochemical degradation, Uzbekistan.Abstract
The storage of cotton seeds (Gossypium hirsutum L.) plays a critical role in determining seed viability, vigor, and germination performance. Over time, physiological and biochemical deterioration reduces the seed’s ability to germinate effectively, directly impacting cotton yield and fiber quality. This research investigates the relationship between storage duration and key quality indicators such as germination rate, moisture content, electrical conductivity, enzyme activity, and seed vigor index. Seeds of different storage ages (0, 6, 12, 18, and 24 months) were analyzed under controlled temperature and humidity conditions. Results demonstrated a significant inverse relationship between storage duration and seed quality parameters. Germination percentage declined from 94% (fresh seeds) to 58% (after 24 months), while lipid peroxidation and electrical conductivity increased markedly. The findings emphasize the necessity of maintaining optimal storage conditions—temperature below 15°C and relative humidity below 45%—to preserve cotton seed viability for extended periods.
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