Seed germination of seeds preserved for about 20 years and that of seeds preserved for several years

Abstract

From the herbage seeds, only alfalfa (Medicago sativa) showed about 3-5% germination ratio for 20 years old seeds. The results are consistent with that of Park and Kim (2009). No germination was observed from the other herbage species, but the decay of seeds were observed sometimes. However, the vegetable seeds preserved for several years showed high germination ratios. In conclusion, older seeds generally germinate a little, while alfalfa seeds continue to live for long time. In addition, new seeds generally germinate more, while, for example, young summer radish germinated a little.