Effect of Seed Treatments and Containers on the Storability of Rice (Var.TRY3) Harvested at Different Maturity Stages using a Combine Harvester

The present investigation aims to study the impact of different maturity stages on the moisture content and storability of the rice variety TRY 3. The seeds were harvested using a combine harvester at various maturity stages: physiological maturity, 2 days after, 4 days after, and 6 days after physiological maturity. The seeds were treated with water-soluble polymer at a rate of 4 mL + 12 mL water per kg and vithai amirtham at 25 mL per kg of seed, and compared with untreated control seeds. The treated seeds were stored under ambient conditions in both super grain and gunny bag containers, alongside the control seeds. Quality parameters were measured initially and at monthly intervals for 12 months to evaluate seed storability. Results showed that seeds harvested at the physiological maturity stage exhibited the highest germination percentage, longest root and shoot lengths, increased dry matter production, the highest seedling vigour index, the lowest pathogen incidence, and the lowest seed leachate levels. Seeds stored in super grain bags demonstrated higher germination rates and seedling vigour index, and lower insect and pathogen incidence and seed leachate levels, compared with seeds stored in gunny bags, regardless of treatment. In conclusion, the TRY 3 rice variety harvested at the physiological maturity stage, treated with water-soluble polymer at 4 mL + 12 mL water per kg of seed, and stored in super grain bags-maintained seed quality above minimum seed certification standards for up to 12 months.