Seed Storage Committee

The common goal of the Committee is the development and/or improvement of effective medium- and long-term storage methods. To achieve these goals, it is important to appreciate the biological processes that underlie seed storage behaviour and how these processes are affected by actual storage. This is particularly true of recalcitrant (non-orthodox) seed germplasm.

Aim:

• To quantify seed storage responses (particularly desiccation tolerance) in species previously under-researched.
• To assess the long-term storage stability of orthodox seeds, including aspects of seed health.
• To develop innovative methods for assessing seed storage potential/responses, including cryopreservation.
• To collate, interpret and present information on seed storage under ‘guidelines’, of value to ISTA members and others. 

Relevance:

• The purpose of seed storage is to maintain the seed in good physical and physiological condition from the time seeds are harvested until the time they are planted.