Evaluation of Seed Quality of Grain Corn Varieties through Accelerated Ageing

Abstract

In an accelerated ageing test carried out to evaluate seed quality two hybrid grain corn varieties, 4546 and 888, were subjected to ageing conditions to assess their tolerance. The objective was to identify any differences between the varieties in their ability to maintain seed quality under accelerated ageing conditions. These tests simulate and hasten the natural ageing process of seeds, providing insight into their performance during storage over time and under adverse conditions. Following the ageing process, factors such as germination rate, vigour, and overall seed quality were assessed. The seeds of hybrid grain corn varieties 4546 and 888 were exposed to accelerated ageing by maintaining them at 40°C and 100% relative humidity in a growth chamber. Evaluations were conducted at intervals of 0, 48, 96, and 144 hours. The overall results indicated that seed quality in grain corn deteriorates following accelerated ageing treatment. Variety 4546 showed a rapid decrease in germination, germination rate, and seedling vigour throughout the testing period. Both varieties experienced an increase in moisture content from 11% to 20% during the ageing process. Additionally, the electrical conductivity of seed leachate increased for both varieties as the testing progressed. The experiment concluded that the 888 grain corn variety outperformed 4546 in all evaluated parameters. The 4546 variety was found to be highly sensitive to accelerated ageing.