Viability conservation of the germination power of rubber tree seed

Abstract

This paper reports the results concerning the influence of temperature, moisture, oxigen and microorganisms on the longevity of Hevea seed. Polythene and multifoliated paper bags for two kilos of seed, were half filled or completely filled and then kept in room temperatures around 27°C or 10°C. Polythene bags kept an evenly high moisture and a corresponding high seed viability up to 180 days. Better results were obtained in half filled polythene bags at ambient around 27°C. Paper bags did not keep the original moisture content in the seed as well as polythene bags did. Therefore, seed in paper bags lost their viability in a tew days. Seed germination and vigour increased in the polythene bags, however a decrease was evident at the end of the 180- day period.