Store seed correctly for future use

October 2024

Karina Muller, SA Graan/Grain editorial team

ACCORDING TO THE SOUTH AFRICAN NATIONAL SEED ORGANISATION (SANSOR), THE CONDITIONS UNDER WHICH SEED IS STORED ARE A DECISIVE FACTOR IN THE YIELD POTENTIAL OF THE SEED.

Factors that have an influence include:

Handling of seed: Do not throw down sacks with seed, as rough handling cause the seed to burst or be damaged. Internal damage is often only visible after germination, and leads to reduced vigour 
and yield.

Longevity: As seeds age, they gradually lose viability. Maize and sunflower seed can be stored for two to three seasons, while the seeds of crops like soybeans and groundnuts have a shorter life.

Moisture content: An increase in moisture content increases the deterioration of seed. Producers growing seed crops should dry the seed as soon as possible after the harvest and store it in sealed containers.

Storage conditions: Seed vigour deteriorates more quickly when storage conditions are not optimal. Seed degradation is caused by high temperatures and high seed moisture levels in particular – which can be caused by high relative humidity in the store. 

Temperature: The storage life of seed increases as the temperature decreases. Seed should be stored at about 15 °C, but if possible rather in cold storage at approximately 4 °C.

STORAGE OF SEED ON FARMS
Here are a few useful tips on the storage of seed on farms:

1. The storage facility should have a solid floor. 
2. Seed should be packed on pallets because of a high potential for floor contamination due to water or other materials that may leak.
3. Seed should preferably not be stacked higher than 2 metres, as the seed at the bottom can be damaged by pressure from above.
4. The store should be dry and cold.
5. Place a storage container inside the store in which to keep the seed.
6. Ensure that there is air flow to eliminate high temperatures and humidity.
7. Make sure that the roof does not leak to prevent possible germination and mould.
8. Inspect the seed regularly for the presence of insects, moths and weevils. 
9. Protect the seed against rodents like rats. Liquid bait works the best in stores. Conduct regular inspections and supplement the bait when necessary.
10. Leave a space of at least 1 metre between the seed and other substances like chemicals or fertiliser. Also leave a space open between the seed and the sides of the storage facility to promote ventilation.
11. Keep the seed store free of dust and rubbish.
12. Do not remove labels from containers and keep seed from the same seed lots and varieties together.
13. Keep the seed labels until after the seed has been harvested so that it is easier to identify the problem if there is one.
14. If seed has been stored for a long period, have it tested by a registered seed-testing laboratory before it is planted.

Publication: October 2024

Section: Pula/Imvula