Characterization of seeds of Peltophorum pterocarpum (DC.)K. Heyne and Spondias mombin L. and effect of storage conditions on seed viability and seedling growth

Knowledge of seed desiccation sensitivity is the beginning for seed storage which plays a decisive role in seed conservation. Experiments of two deciduous tree species (P. pterocarpum and S.mombin) have done to determine the type of seed, to apply the successful seed storage and determine their seedling behavior. The study was conducted in April 2016 until July 2017 at Purwodadi Botanic Garden. The seeds through the desiccation process and 2 types of storage : freezer (-16 0C) and at refrigerator (16 0C) during 7 months. One hundred eighty seeds of a species in each treatment were planted in pod filled with sand in a greenhouse. The germination traits were identified, including GP (Germination Precentage), GR (Germination Rate), RGR (Relative Growth Rate), VH (Velocity of plant height increase), VL (Velocity of leaves number increase. Those species are more classified as intermediate rather than orthodox seeds. Each treatment brought significant difference in growth parameters, except RGR. In general, storage treatments decrease the seedling growth. However, the seedling stored in cold temperature has better performance in growth than seeds stored in freezing temperature. Storage in higher temperature are more successful in the seed conservation of P. pterocarpum and S. mombin.