Vol. 10, Issue 6 (2021)

Author(s):
Seema S Doddamani and SN Betageri

Abstract:
Major constraint in soybean seed production is the rapid loss of seed viability during storage. The seed quality in soybean is affected by harvesting stages, threshing methods, storage conditions and mechanical damage etc. Among harvesting stages, soybean harvested at 90 DAS (days after sowing) recorded highest germination and moisture, vigour and lower mechanical damage, EC as compared to other harvesting stages. Delaying harvesting viz., 100 DAS and 110 DAS results in increased seed leachates and mechanical damage. Among threshing methods, beating with sticks recorded less mechanical damage and maximum germination, vigour and tractor trampling resulted in higher mechanical damage, EC and minimum germination and vigour. Study indicates that for good seed quality, soybean pods should be harvested at 90 DAS viz., at physiological maturity and threshed by beating with sticks.