Canadian Forest Service Publications
Factors affecting tree seed storage. 2006. Wang, B.S.P.; Simpson, J.D. Journal of Nanjing Forestry University 30: 1-8.
Year: 2006
Issued by: Atlantic Forestry Centre
Catalog ID: 26212
Language: English
Availability: PDF (request by e-mail)
Abstract
Seed storage is necessary to provide an annual supply of viable seed for reforestation and for preservation of germplasm for gene conservation. Seed longevity is inherited and varies among species. Five storage behaviors are recognized: orthodox, suborthodox, temperate, recalcitrant, tropical recalcitrant, and intermediate. Seed moisture content and storage temperature are the two most important factors contributing to storage behavior. Hermetically sealed containers are necessary for maintaining viability of orthodox and suborthodox seeds but some air exchange is required for recalcitrant seeds which remain metabolically active and require oxygen for respiration.