Influence of Micro-Environment of Storage Materials on Kenaf Seed Quality under Ambient Storage Conditions

Abstract

Kenaf seeds losses viability rapidly because of its oil content. Various modifications to storage environments
are exploited by farmers to create conducive environment for seed preservation. The study was conducted to
understand the micro-environment in some locally available storage materials under ambient condition to
determine the suitability of these materials for short and medium term storage for kenaf seeds. Initial seed
quality of kenaf (Cuba 108) was determined before dividing them to ten sample representatives. The samples
were stored in three storage containers (covered clay pot, calabash gourd and plastic container) under shade
and seed cold room for six months. Experimental design for the trial was Completely Randomized Design
replicated three times. Thermo-hygrometer was used to monitor the relative humidity (RH) and temperature
within the micro-environment of the storage container, cold room and storage environment. Monthly
evaluation of the seed quality was done to determine deterioration rate in each storage container. Data obtained
were subjected to analysis of variance and significant treatment means were separated using Duncan Multiple
Range Test (p=5%) Estimates of intercept of the seed survival line, rate of deterioration and time taken for seed
to decline to 50% seed life was estimated by probit procedure, while predicting equation for seed germination
and seedling vigour were generated through regression analysis. Results showed that kenaf seeds are naturally
short-lived. None of the storage containers possess conducive environment comparable to the cold room
storage. Therefore, storage of kenaf seed for over three months under ambient environment should be avoided,
while use of covered plastic bucket containers under shade was recommended only for short term storage not
exceeding three months.