Effect of Storage Condition, Initial Seed Moisture Content and Germination on Soybean Seed Deterioration

In order to assess seed deterioration of soybean at Ardebil province, this study was conducted as a factorial experiment based on randomized complete block design in 2014. The treatments consisted of germination ability, seed moisture content and seed storing conditions. Germination ability treatment was concluded of three germination levels: 80%, 85% and 90%. Also, three rates of seed moisture content including 10%, 12% and 14%; and two seed storing conditions including seed storage of Moghan and controlled storage were considered as second and third treatments. The results indicated that seed quality significantly reduced by increasing the seed moisture content up to 14% and this moisture content was determined as inappropriate moisture for soybean seed storage. Seeds with high moisture content showed significantly lower normal seedlings percent, germination rate and seedling vigor indices. However, there was no significant difference between 12% and 10% seed moisture contents, so it can be concluded that 12% seed moisture content is proper moisture for soybean seed storage. According to the results, enhancement of seed moisture content more than 12% will result in more accelerated deterioration of soybean seed, in a way that seeds with higher moisture content, especially at inappropriate seed storage conditions will lose their quality and will cause yield reduction at field due to low plant density aroused from inadequate seedling emergence.