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Packaging and environmental conditions affect the physiological quality of pitaya seeds (Hylocereus undatus) during 12 months of storage
Abstract
Pitaya encompasses a group of exotic cactus species, with the genus Hylocereus being valued for both its nutritional benefits and the distinctive characteristics of its fruit. Since this species can be propagated by seeds, it is essential to evaluate storage conditions to determine those that best preserve the physiological quality of seed batches. This study aims to assess the physiological quality of pitaya seeds stored under different packaging and environmental conditions over a 12-month period. The experiment was conducted with Hylocereus undatus seeds using a completely randomized design with 4 replications of 50 seeds each, arranged in a 3 × 3 × 12 factorial scheme [packaging (white Kraft paper bag, polythene bag, and polypropylene bag), storage environment (ambient, refrigerator, and cold chamber), and storage duration (from 1st to 12th month, monthly)]. To evaluate seed physiological quality, a germination test was performed, and the variables analyzed included germination percentage, germination speed index (GSI), and mean germination time (MGT). The data were subjected to analysis of variance, and significant results were further analyzed using regression models with quadratic terms. Pitaya seeds (H. undatus) stored in a cold chamber retained their physiological quality in paper, polythene, or polypropylene packaging over 12 months. In contrast, under other storage conditions, the storage period should be reduced due to its negative impact on the physiological quality of pitaya seeds.
