Changes in germination energy and laboratory germination rates of flax seeds removed from a low-temperature storage facility

Background. Most of the low-temperature storage studies do not go beyond defining germination rates of seeds immediately after their removal from such storage. The question of later changes in seed germination energy and laboratory germination rates during further storage of such seeds under normal room temperature and humidity has not been clarified well enough in scientific publications.

Materials and methods. The germination rate of 26 flax accessions reproduced in 1982–1986 and deposited for long-term low-temperature storage (+4.5°C) in the Kuban Genetic Seed Bank of VIR was tested after their removal from storage in accordance with the State Standards (GOST 12038-84).

Results. The data analysis showed that extended (180 days) exposure of the seeds removed from low-temperature storage to room temperature led to a decrease in the germination rate of accessions from 1% to 74% versus the germination rate recorded for the seeds transplanted three days after low-temperature storage.

Conclusion. Seeds that underwent long-term low temperature storage in a genebank should be removed from storage shortly before their sowing time. Keeping them under room temperature after long-term low-temperature conservation is not advisable.

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