Effect of packaging and storage temperatures on longevity of carrot seeds

Carrot seeds cv Nantes were stored at ambient, 5°C and -20°C. Seeds with seven per cent moisture were packed in paper, glass, polyethylene aluminium foil laminated pouches and viability, vigour and longevity were studied. Seeds remained viable for two years. The process of seed deterioration was faster and greater at ambient storage. The initial viability was maintained at 5°C and -20°C storage. Polyethylene and paper bags were effective in retaining high seed viability at 5°C and suitable for the medium term storage. The aluminium foil laminated bags maintained high viability and seedling vigour at −20°C thus effective for long term conservation of invaluable germplasm.