Solute leakage in relation to loss of seed viability on accelerated ageing in different onion cultivars

Seeds of ten onion cultivars were evaluated for seed viability and storability after accelerated ageing. Seeds were exposed to high temperature (42°C) and relative humidity (95%) for 1, 2, 4, and 8 days. Cultivars Arka Pragati. Poona Red, Chiekballapur Local, Crystal Wax and Nasik Red Globe showed high percentage of germination after four days of ageing and classified as good storer while none of seeds germinated after eight days of ageing. Accelerated ageing for four days was ideal for relative evaluation of seed longevity in onion. The leaching of electrolytes and soluble sugars were increased with increase in ageing period. Solute leakage was greater in. low germinable seeds of different onion cultivate on accelerated ageing.