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.

Keywords: Maize, shelf life, storage