Recalcitrant Seeds: A Review of Research on the Key Factors Affecting and some Important Management Strategies for Extending Longevity during Storage

Recalcitrant seeds are susceptible to low temperatures and desiccation, which constitutes a significant problem for seed storage compared to orthodox seeds. In addition to carefully examining every aspect affecting the viability and longevity of recalcitrant seeds during storage, this review aims to explore management strategies to mitigate these challenges. The sensitivity of seeds to temperature changes, their moisture content, water activity or equilibrium relative humidity, pests, pathogens, drying rate, and oxidative damage are all significant factors that affect how quickly seeds deteriorate. The effectiveness of various management techniques, such as exercising precaution at the seed collection, choosing the ideal temperature and moisture-holding medium, promoting germination and seedling establishment, and cryopreservation, is assessed to increase the lifespan of seeds. The results highlight the necessity of an all-encompassing, diversified strategy to successfully handle recalcitrant seed storage and safeguard the preservation of plant species for upcoming generations.