Effect of seed moisture content and storage temperature on viability of Balkan maple (Acer hyrcanum Fisch & Meyer) seed

This experiment was conducted to survey the effect of desiccation and storage temperature on Balkan maple (Acer hyrcanum Fisch & Meyer) seed viability. The seeds were hermetically stored at three moisture content levels (12%, 8% and 4%) and stored in three storage temperatures including -20 °C (freezer), 4 °C (refrigerator) and 25 °C (room) up to 48 weeks in order to record the loss variability in viability. Results showed that effect of seed moisture content, storage temperature and their interaction on seed viability was significant. Seeds were viable (98%) at refrigerator until week 48. Viability at freezer reduced to 80% on week 8 and was constant till week 48. At room temperature, viability sharply reduced from week 24, so that on week 48 all of the seeds (12% and 8% moisture content) were found dead, but the seeds with 4% moisture content had weak viable (18%). This research revealed that Balkan maple seed with 4-12% moisture content can be successfully stored up to 6 months at room temperature and up to a year at refrigerator and freezer. Continuing the experiment in refrigerator and freezer will reveal the storage capability of this seed for longer periods.This research revealed that Balkan maple seed with 4-12% moisture content can be successfully stored up to 6 months at room temperature and up to a year at refrigerator and freezer. Continuing the experiment in refrigerator and freezer will reveal the storage capability of this seed for longer periods.