Changes in Viability and Microflora of Soybean Seeds Stored under Various Conditions in Puerto Rico

Abstract

Woodworth soybean (Glycine max) seed lots were stored under tropical conditions at two locations of the University of Puerto Rico, in four types of containers at three moisture levels, arranged in a completely randomized factorial design. Germination overall factors decreased with time. Germin ation decreased with increased length of storage and was accompanied by a concomitant increase in the occurrence of Bacillus subtilis. After 9 mo, the seeds with an initial moisture content (dry basis) of 8.6% had a higher germination and lower occurrence of seed-borne microorganisms than those stored with 10.7% and 12.5%. Seeds stored in 200-g sealed food cans main tained germination longer than those stored in nonsealed cans with a plastic lining, plastic-lined fertil izer bags, or in cloth bags. Seeds stored in cloth bags had a greater incidence of B. subtilis than those from the other storage containers. Whether or not th ere were significant differences between storage location for any main effects or interactions depended upon the parameter measured.