Biochemical responses to natural and accelerated ageing on seed quality in Indian mustard (Brassica juncea)

Indian mustard [Brassica juncea (L.) Czern. & Coss.] is an important oilseed crop of many tropical and subtropical countries of the world. The present study was carried out at research farm of Department of Seed Science and Technology, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar during winter (rabi) season 2017-18 and 2018-19. The objective of present study was to evaluate the effect of natural and accelerated aging on biochemical constitutes in 3 Indian mustard varieties, viz. RH-30, RH-9304 and RH-0406 with three seed lots (fresh seed, 1-year old seed, 2-year-old seed). Naturally aged seed lots of variety RH-30 was found to meet out Indian Minimum Seed Certification Standard after 1-year under ambient condition. Tetrazolium test indicated that the viability of Indian mustard seeds decreased after increasing the ageing duration. Maximum seed viability recorded in the variety RH-30 and minimum was recorded in variety RH-0406. Activities of all the enzymes, viz. superoxide dismutase, dehydrogenase and peroxidase significantly decreased with natural ageing; RH-30 was found to be a good storer variety. The maximum performance for standard germination and enzymes activity was observed in fresh seed lots. Results showed that among different Indian mustard varieties, RH-30 and RH-9304 were found best responsive with minimal seed deterioration effects, and better germination and seedling establishment potential.