Abstract

                                Maize (CO 1) was subjected to different irrigation methods (all furrow, alternate furrow and skip furrow), irrigation levels (IW/CPE ratio of 0.50 and 0.75) and nitrogen levels (75,125 and 175 kg/ha). Seeds harvested were dried to 10±0.5% moisture content and stored in 700 gauge polyethylene and gunny bags under ambient conditions of temperature and relative humidity. The storability of seeds obtained from different irrigation and N management was determined during the year 1990-91, through the parameters viz.. germination (%), seedling vigour, electrical conductivity (umhos/cm), sugars (g) aminoacids (g) protcin content (%) and dehydrogenase activity (OD value). The seeds obtained from plants irrigated to the level of 0.75 IE/CPE ratio through all furrow method and supplied with 175 kg N/ha stored better than those of other treatments. The seeds stored in 700 gauge polyethylene bags maintained better viability and vigour during storage than the seeds stored in gunny bags.

Key words : Maize, shelf life, storage