Storage of Crambe abyssinica Hoechst seeds after drying at different temperatures

The objective of this work was to evaluate the physiological quality of crambe seeds, cultivar FMS Brilhante, after drying at different temperatures and submitted to storage. The experimental design used was randomized blocks, with four replications. After harvesting, the seeds were processed and then were subjected to drying at different temperatures (natural and artificial air at 30, 45 and 60 ° C), until they reached 10% of water content. The seeds were packed in paper packaging and stored, for 12 months, in an air-conditioned room with an average temperature of 20 oC and relative humidity close to 55%. At the beginning of storage and every 120 days, the degree of humidity, germination and vigor (first germination count, seedling emergence and electrical conductivity of the seeds) were determined. The crambe seeds cultivar FMS Brilhante showed postharvest dormancy, being exceeded during storage. Artificial drying at 30 and 45 ° C does not affect the physiological performance of the seeds during storage. Drying at 60 oC is detrimental to the quality of crambe seeds, regardless of the storage period. The physiological performance of the seeds decreases after eight months of storage.