If the seeds are to be sown immediately after processing (within few days), they can be stored in cloth bags and kept in cool place until required. Sealed containers such as polythene bag, glass jar or tin should be avoided, as the seeds become too moist and quickly get warm and mouldy. However, when the seeds are to be kept for long period, they must be stored avoid loss of fertility.
1, Orthodox seeds
These types of seeds can be stored by drying them properly. Seeds must be exposed to the sun on a sieve for 2-3 days. After proper drying transfer them immediately into a container that can be properly sealed which will keep them dry. Polythene bag, plastic or glass jars can be used as containers. When seed is removed from a container, make sure that it is sealed properly. If the container left open the seeds will quickly absorb moisture, and will have to dried again.
2, Recalcitrant seed
These seeds must be kept moist if they are to remain viable. If they are dried, they will lose viability soon. These seeds are often found in species that have fleshy fruits which do not dry out in the tree, and which are dispersed just before or during the rains. Recalcitrant seed should be sown as quickly as possible after their collection. If it has to be stored for more than a week it can be mixed with twice its volume of sand and put this mixture in fine wire mesh bag or clay pots.
