Seed development and maturation in sesame (CV. Prachi) as influenced by growing seasons

An investigation has been planned to study the influence of growing season on the pattern of seed development and maturation in sesamum. Seed crops of sesame cv. Prachi were grown during summer- 2015, kharif -2015 and rabi 2015-16 at the Central Research station OUAT, Bhubaneswar, adopting recommended package of practices. Observation on various capsule and seed characteristics were recorded at weekly intervals from the 7th day of anthesis (DAA) up to 42 days. Capsule length and dry weight of seeds showed a steady increase upto 35 days. Capsule width (0.733 cm) increased up to 28 days and thickness (0.894 cm) increased up to 21 days and then decreased slowly up to maturity. The physiological maturity of seeds reached between 35-42 days. Although, seed germinability attained on the 14 DAA, the maximum germination (93.833%) and vigour reached around physiological maturity stage. The dry seed weight, an important determinant of seed yield and quality was the highest (0.183g) in kharif followed by that in summer (0.153g) and the least (0.101g) in rabi season. Considering the seed quality parameters, kharif and summer season appears to be ideal time for quality seed production in sesame.