Influence of Seed Moisture Content and Storage Temperature to Safflf lower Seeds Germination

Abstract

Safflower (Carthamus tinctorius L.) is a multipurpose crop species which can be used as food, medicinal and industrial applications. It is an important utilized crop, and through additional research involving genetic resources, has a high potential for further expansion and development. Safflower is an oilseed with short longevity. Moisture content (MC) and storage temperature are two key factors affecting the longevity of seeds. In this study, effects of 4 MC levels (12%, 8%, 6% and 4%) with 3 storage temperatures (ambient, 5 °C and -10 °C) were examined. The study revealed that seed with 12, 8, 6 and 4% MC could be stored at ambient temperature for 1, 9, 18 and 27 months, respectively. Seed contained 12% MC, stored at 5 °C and -10 °C could be kept for 10 and 27 months, respectively. However, seed stored with 8, 6 and 4% MC stored at 5 °C and -10 °C showed longer storage life than 27 months. Therefore, it can be concluded that safflower seeds with high moisture content can be stored for short time period at ambient temperature while less moisture content seeds can extend storage time. Moreover, storage at the lowest temperature (-10 °C) can prolong seed longevity without requirement of moisture content reduction.