Evaluation of Storage Techniques to Improve the Seed Longevity of Horsegram

Abstract

Horsegram (Macrotyloma uniflorum) is a robust, drought-resistant crop that is valued for its high protein content and is a significant food source in many parts of the world. Horsegram seeds must be stored properly to preserve their freshness, nutritional value, and viability for future planting. In this article an investigation was carried out to evaluate the suitable seed treatment and packaging materials for maintaining the shelf life of horsegram seeds during storage. The laboratory experiment was carried out at Department of Seed Science and Technology, Agricultural College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Madurai, India. The graded seeds of horsegram were treated with different botanicals (Neem seed kernel powder @ 5g/kg & Pungam leaf powder @ 5g/kg), herbal oil (Neem oil @ 5ml/kg) and chemical (Malathion @ 5g/kg) and packed in cloth and super grain bags which was kept under ambient condition. The physical, physiological and biochemical parameters were assessed from the stored seed samples. Horsegram seeds dusted with malathion at 5 g/kg and then packed in a super grain bag have better germination (94%), root length (18.33 cm), shoot length (9.10 cm), DMP (0.165 g seedlings-10), vigour index I and II (2551 and 16.2), and also biochemical parameters like the lowest electrical conductivity (0.121 dSm-1), highest enzyme activity like dehydrogenase (0.521) and catalase (0.213 units g-1) and protein level (19.21%) was also high in malathion (5 g/kg) treated seeds packed in a super grain bag after storage for 8 months.