Effect of chemicals and packaging materials on storability of pearl millet seed of variety (VPMH-14)

This study was carried out to understand how different chemical treatments and packaging materials affect the storability of pearl millet (VPMH-14) seeds over ten months. Seeds were treated with either Bavistin or Apron at 2 g/kg and stored in cloth bags, polythene bags, or vacuum packaging. The experiment followed a completely randomized design with three replications. Seed quality was evaluated every three months based on germination percentage, seedling vigor index, moisture content, electrical conductivity, and catalase (CAT) enzyme activity. Results showed that seed quality declined gradually over time across all treatments, but the rate of deterioration varied. Seeds treated with Bavistin and stored in vacuum packaging consistently performed best, retaining 81.33% germination after ten months. They also maintained higher seedling vigor, lower electrical conductivity, and higher CAT activity, suggesting better protection against aging and oxidative stress. In contrast, untreated seeds stored in cloth bags showed the fastest decline in quality. Overall, the study highlights the importance of combining effective seed treatments with protective packaging especially vacuum sealing to slow down seed aging and preserve viability. These findings can help improve seed storage practices and ensure better crop establishment in pearl millet.