Influence of size grading on seed quality of Kabuli chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) varieties

Abstract

Seed size grading is the important practice for better crop establishment and to improve efficiency of planting ratio in field and also useful in separation of quality seed in a seed lot. In the present study, the influence of seed grading on seed quality parameters were evaluated by using different sieves of two kabuli chickpea varieties viz., BG1105 and MNK-1. Grading of seeds by different sieves had significant influence on seed quality parameters. Among the sieve sizes, 6.50 mm (round) recorded significantly higher seed recovery (96.87%) and germination (100%) in V1-BG1105 variety, while, MNK-1 variety with maximum seed recovery (97.96%) and germination (98.50%) and other physiological seed quality parameters. The study indicates small to medium size seed had better seed quality parameters as compared to undersized and oversized seeds. The maximum seed recovery per cent and seed quality can be obtained by using 6.50 mm (round) sieve size for kabuli chickpea varieties.