Seed storage of African marigold (Tagetes erecta L.) for ex-situ conservation

Marigold (Tagetes species) is and important ornamental plant grown throughout the world which also carries industrial potential owing to its oil and carotenoid pigments. A study was undertaken in African marigold (Tagetes erecta L.) to identify the suitable storage environment for ex-situ conservation of seeds and the factors responsible for the longevity of the stored seeds. The present study suggested that size of achene be an important attribute to estimate the health and quality of seed lots in marigold. The seed deteriorate with increase in storage period and moisture content. Seed leachate conductivity was not found to be a good indicator of viability loss when seed was stored at low temperature. Seeds can be dried up to 1.5% moisture content without loosing viability. However, seed moisture content between 3-6% is safe for long-term storage at low temperature (-20degreesC). The specie under study did not behave as true orthodox when ultra desiccated seeds (<6% MC) were stored at ultra-low (-196degreesC) temperature.