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Abstract(s)
Seed-based revegetation is fundamental in global restoration efforts. When seed storage is mandatory, knowledge of storage conditions that reduce ageing is essential for effective conservation of viable seeds. However, inappropriate storage is still frequent, particularly in local restoration projects involving native species.
We investigated how different storage conditions (temperature and relative humidity) affected seed viability of the Mediterranean shrubs Arbutus unedo and Myrtus communis. We aimed to identify which conditions reduced seed deterioration and to provide practitioners with practical storage guidelines to overcome the natural fluctuations in seed production of these two species.
Seeds equilibrated at 15%, 30% and 60% relative humidity (RH) and sealed in airtight containers were stored at 5 °C or ambient temperature over one year. Additional seed lots were kept under ambient conditions, according to the usual local practice (open storage). Germination tests were performed prior to and after storage.
Significant seed deterioration (80–100%) occurred in seeds equilibrated at 60% RH and stored at ambient temperature, and in seeds kept in open storage. The remaining treatments maintained high seed viability.
Short seed longevity under ambient conditions was demonstrated for both species. To store seeds over one year, practitioners may either (i) equilibrate seeds up to 60% RH and store them in a refrigerator (5 °C), or (ii) equilibrate seeds up to 30% RH (preferably 15% RH for A. unedo) and store them at ambient temperature. All seeds should be sealed into airtight containers immediately after equilibrium. The effectiveness of the 5 °C-60% RH treatment demonstrated that procedures less demanding than international standards for short-term storage can still ensure seed viability.
While contributing to the understanding of species responses to storage conditions, our findings can be applied to both species by local practitioners across the Mediterranean. Moreover, our approach can be adapted and extended to other restoration projects and native species, supporting specific improvements to seed storage protocols, thereby enhancing the cost-effectiveness and the capacity of restoration efforts.
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Publisher
Elsevier