Seed longevity Prediction Based on Moisture Content, Seed Collection Date, and Storage Methods in Quercus myrsinifolia

Abstract

This study investigates the factors influencing the seed longevity of Quercus myrsinifolia, a species with recalcitrant seeds highlysensitive to desiccation and freezing. The effects of moisture content, seed collection date, and storage methods on seed viability wereanalyzed using exponential decay modeling. Interactions between these factors were also explored to refine conservation strategies. Seedswith moisture content above 40% demonstrated a predicted seed longevity of 2.19 years, whereas those with moisture content below30% had seed longevity of less than 1 year. Late-season seeds collected in November and December exhibited superior germinationpercentages and longer predicted seed longevity (1.32 years) compared to early-season seeds collected in September and October(<1 year). In seed weight, large seeds (2.0 g) showed longer predicted seed longevity about 1.5 times greater than that of small seeds(<1.2g). Storage methods significantly affected seed longevity, with refrigerator (4°C) with silica gel maintaining viability for 2–3 years,while seeds stored at room temperature (25°C) exhibited a seed longevity of less than 1 year. Silica gel was found to prevent seeddeterioration due to over-desiccation, emphasizing the importance of balanced moisture regulation. Q. myrsinifolia seeds exhibited valuesranging from 0.30 to 2.04, demonstrating a close relationship between decay constant, moisture content, storage conditions, and seedlongevity. These findings provide critical insights into optimizing seed storage and propagation strategies for Q. myrsinifolia, contributingto its conservation and ecological restoration efforts.