Features of processing and preparation of corn seeds for long-term storage

Abstract

Goal. To study the optimal ways of forming stocks of corn hybrid seeds, to determine which post-harvest processing operations increase the quality and economic durability of the seed material of hybrids during their long-term storage. Methods. Laboratory — to determine the indicators of seed quality and longevity (weight of 1000 seeds, germination, moisture, acidity), field — to study the productive properties of seeds (yield), mathematical and statistical — to assess the reliability of the data obtained using Excel, Statistica 6.0 spreadsheets. Among post-harvest processing operations, they studied methods of drying (natural, ventilation, thermal) and separation regulations in the mode of cleaning, calibration, and gravity sorting of seeds. The seeds were stored for 3 years under the requirements of the DSTU 2240 standard in the conditions of a typical seed storage. The objects of research were hybrids DN Khortytsia, and DB Khotyn of the selection of the State Enterprise Institute of Cereal Cultures of the National Academy of Agrarian Sciences (SE ICC of NAAS). Results. A significant influence of drying methods and separation regulations on the quality and longevity of the seeds of corn hybrids was revealed. The method of drying depended on the moisture content of the hybrids at harvest and on the seed heating temperature. The regulation of separation determined the physico-mechanical parameters of a seed — its linear size, shape, absolute, and specific mass. Conclusions. To create stocks of high-quality seeds of corn hybrids, it is recommended to follow the following procedure: harvesting at a humidity of 31–35%, 26–30 and 20–25%, drying at temperatures of 36–40°C, 40–44 and 44–46°C according to humidity; separation in three stages: the first — cleaning from impurities with a content of 18–30%, the second — sieve calibration, the third — gravity sorting. It is necessary to store the highest-quality and long-lasting fractions — the second and third (passage through a sieve with a mesh diameter of 9–10 mm, exit 7–8 mm).