Effects of low cost drying methods on seed quality of Sorghum bicolor (L.) Monech

Abstract

The effect of low cost drying methods on the seed quality of different genotypes of sorghum was investigated. Fresh seeds from five genotypes were subjected to three drying regimes, namely sun, shade and silica gel, and were compared to the standard recommended drying condition using a seed dryer (Munter seed dryer Model M120) as control. The effects of the drying regimes on seed moisture content, viability and quality were studied. All the drying methods were able to dry seeds to safe seed moisture contents levels (range of 5.6 - 7.5%) for conservation. None of the alternative drying methods examined proved to be better than drying in a seed dryer. Seeds dried with the seed dryer gave the highest germination percentage compared to those dried using silica gel, or under shade and sun. However, this study indicates that drying with silica gel and shade are good alternative methods. Sun drying is quicker, but is harmful to the seeds and affects long-term seed viability.