Module 13 : Seed drying and storage
Training, self-paced, seed production, health, quality
Welcome to this new training module, “Seed drying and storage” !
Hello ! My name is Steven Groot.
I’m a seed biologist and have worked for almost 40 years at Wageningen University & Research on seed biology and seed technology. At present I provide training and consultancy on these topics in the frame of the International Seed Academy. I’m also vice-chair if the Seed Storage Committee from the International Seed Testing Association. Today, we are going to talk about drying and storing seed. Seeds are living beings that undergo ageing processes. In this module, I’ll explain how seeds age and how to slow down that ageing process in order to ensure optimal shelf life and seed vigour.
Dry and store seed : why it is important ?
Once seeds have been harvested, it is crucial to dry them thoroughly and store them in adequate conditions. Otherwise, seeds will age, lose vigour and, in the end, die more quickly. Even if they still germinate, seeds that have not been dried and stored adequately may lose seed vigour, and thus result in less vigourous seedlings, which are more susceptible to stress factors, such as soil-borne diseases or soil crusts. The better you dry and store your seeds, the more you will have from them. It’s really about not wasting your efforts !
After completing this module, you will be able to
- list and prioritise among the factors driving seed ageing
- monitor the RH of a seed batch and decide when the appropriate level is reached for seed storage
- choose among a range of techniques to store seeds safely
Take the training module
13.1_Video unit
Why and how to dry seeds
13.2_Video unit
Optimising storage conditions
13.3_Exercice
Experience the monitoring of the eRH level of a seed sample.
13.4_Quiz
Fill out the quiz
Download the powerpoint files
13.1_PowerPoint File
Download the slideshow
13.2_PowerPoint File
Download the slideshow
Recommendations for completing the module
For more theoretical background knowledge or considerations on the specific case of tomato, check out the optional resources for further study.
Time needed to complete the module : Completing this e-learning module will take approximately 90 minutes.
To complete this e-learning activity, you will need a good internet connection for video content, a pen and pencil if you like to take notes while watching the videos.
For exercise 13.3 :
- Liveseeding Practice Abstract No.3 for instructions
- a hygrometer an air-tight container (with a transparent lid, unless you are using a digital hygrometer that can be read remotely)
- a seed sample Paper and pencil
Further resources
Background knowledge and practical tips
For drying and storing seeds on a small to medium scale : Practical Guide for drying and storing vegetable seeds in organic small-scale and on-farm seed production
Short publication
Seed vigour, keep it high ! Liveseed Practice Abstract No. 30
Short publcation
Proper seed storage - Liveseed Practice Abstract No. 25