Storage and germination response of recalcitrant seeds subjected to mild dehydration

A problem associated with the storage of fully hydrated recalcitrant seeds is germination in storage, and it has been suggested that this problem could be overcome by partial dehydration, which is sufficient to prevent germination but high enough to avoid desiccation damage (i.e. 'sub-imbibed' storage). However, partial drying (pd) is shown to stimulate germination, and this process could reduce storage lifespan. Data are presented on recalcitrant seeds from a number of species, demonstrating the enhancement of germination by rapid mild dehydration, and the adverse effects of this mild dehydration on subsequent storage at a range of temperatures.