Drying during muskmelon (Cucumis melo L.) seed priming and its effects on seed germination and deterioration

Effects of drying conditions during seed priming on muskmelon seed quality were investigated either immediately after seed priming or after twelve months of storage. Seeds of muskmelon, cv. Top Net SR were primed for 6 days in darkness at 25°C in KNO 3 (0.35 M) aerated solution. Seeds were rinsed in running tap water and redried at 18, 28, and 38°C during 24, 48, and 72 hours. Seeds were stored at 10°C, 45% RH for 12 months. The beneficial effects of seed priming were maintained after dehydration. Drying temperature did not affect seed germination after priming. An interaction effect on germination between temperature and drying duration was observed at low temperature. Seed germination and vigour of primed seeds decreased after 12 months of storage. Both temperature and duration of drying affected seed vigour after storage period. A better management of drying conditions during muskmelon seed priming should be focused in order to achieve the benefits of seed priming and to maintain seed quality, especially if primed seeds are to be stored.