Changes in Seed Yield and Quality with Maturity in Onion (Allium cepa L., cv. 'Early Cream Gold') |
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| Authors: | C J Spurr D A Fulton P H Brown R J Clark |
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| Institution: | Authors' address: Mr.;C. J. Spurr (corresponding author), Dr. D. A. Fulton, Dr. P. H. Brown and Prof. R. J. Clark, School of Agricultural Science, University of Tasmania, GPO Box 252-54, Tasmania 7001, Australia |
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| Abstract: | Development of onion (Allium cepa L., cv. ‘Early Cream Gold’) seed under cool climate conditions in Tasmania, Australia occurred over a longer duration than previously reported, but similar patterns of change in yield components were recorded. In contrast to previous studies, umbel moisture content declined from 85 to 67 % over 57 days while seed moisture content decreased from 85 to 31 %. Seed yield continued to increase over the duration of crop development, with increasing seed weight compensating for seed loss resulting from capsule dehiscence in the later stages of maturation. Germination percentage was high and did not vary significantly from 53 to 77 days after full bloom (DAF), but mean germination time declined and uniformity of germination increased significantly over the same time period. The percentage abnormal seedlings declined with later harvest date, resulting in highest seed quality at 77 DAF. The results of this study suggest that the decision to harvest cool climate onion seed crops before capsule dehiscence will result in a loss of potential seed yield and quality. |
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| Keywords: | abnormal seedlings Allium cepa harvest date germination onion vigour |
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