Investigating the effects of ultraviolet applications, storage temperatures and durations on germination performance and quality in pea (Pisum sativum L.) seeds

This study was conducted to investigate the reactions of Utrillo pea variety seeds (Pisum sativum L.) exposed to UV-C radiation for different times (5, 10 and 20 min) in terms of quality and germination of seeds depending on storage at different temperatures (15, 20 and 25 °C) and duration (360 days). In the study, all analyzes and measurements were made at the beginning (day 0), 90, 180, 270 and 360 days of storage. Seed moisture content decreased in UV-C and storage temperature treatments. Bulk density decreased with the increase in UV-C application time and storage temperature. Although bulk density decreased with increasing storage duration, it increased on the 360th day of storage. While the electrical conductivity value increased depending on UV-C and storage temperature, a decrease in the electrical conductivity value was detected in the application of storage duration. It was determined that only storage duration was effective on the pH content of pea seeds. It was observed that all three treatments had no effect on the ash content of the seeds. It was detected that the treatments did not have much effect on the color properties of the seeds. In terms of mineral composition, decreases were detected towards the end of storage with 20 min UV-C application time and 25 °C storage temperature. While UV-C application time influenced the germination percentage, storage temperature had no effect on the germination parameters examined. As a result, it was determined that the UV-C application time was appropriate to extend the storage duration and reduce quality losses in pea seeds. It was concluded that pea seeds exposed to UV-C application for 5 minutes can be stored for 360 days at a storage temperature of 15 °C.