Soybean seed quality in response to time of desiccant application

Author： Rahman M.M. Hampton J.G. Hill M.J.

Publisher： International Seed Testing Association

ISSN： 1819-5717

Source： Seed Science and Technology, Vol.32, Iss.1, 2004-04, pp. : 219-223

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Abstract

The desiccant diquat (3 litres product/ha) was applied to two cultivars (Northern Conquest and March) of soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merrill) at four times during seed maturation (56, 46, 40 or 30% seed moisture content (SMC)). Following hand harvest at 15% SMC, seeds were assessed for germination and vigour (accelerated ageing (AA) and conductivity). Time of desiccation had no effect on the germination of cv. Northern Conquest, but the germination of cv. March was reduced when the crop was desiccated at SMC >30%. Desiccation at 56% SMC reduced seed vigour, as indicated by a significant reduction in AA germination and increased conductivity, but AA germination was significantly higher for cv. March than for cv. Northern Conquest for all treatments except desiccation at 40% SMC. In the environment of Canterbury, New Zealand, desiccation of cv. Northern Conquest at 40% SMC would advance harvest by 6-7 days without affecting germination, but for cv. March, desiccation should not occur before 30% SMC.