Standardization of Seed Storage Conditions for Cedrus deodara (Roxb.) G. Don

Cedrus deodara (Roxb.) G. Don (Deodar) is one amongst the prominent conifer species of temperate region of India. Good seed year in this species occurs once in 4-5 years and the seeds do not retain viability for more than one season under normal ambient temperature. Standardization of suitable storage condition is pre-requisite for the management of its germplasm. Therefore, the present study was undertaken to assess the effect of storage temperatures and type of containers on viability and germination during different storage periods (3, 6, 9, 12, 15 and 18 months). The seeds were stored in three different types of containers (Polybags, Earthen pots and Plastic containers) and kept at three different temperature regimes (Room temperature, 4.0±1.0°C and 8.0±1.0°C). Results revealed that seed stored in earthen pots at 4.0±1.0°C retained significantly (P < 0.05) higher viability (73.0%), germination (70.0%) and germination value (19.50) after 18 months of storage as compared to other storage conditions. Notably, a sharp decline in viability and germination was recorded in seeds stored in polybags placed at room temperature. Possible reasons of such variation in results have been discussed. The implementation of these results for conservation management especially nursery development and sustainable utilization of Deodar in Himalayan region have been suggested.