Seed germination in relation to seed development in eggplant (Solanum melongena)

Abstract

A study was conducted during 2005-06 to know the seed quality in relation to stage of seed development and to find out right stage of fruit harvest based on fruit colour in eggplant (Solanum melongena L.). There was a progressive decline in moisture content of the seeds as the fruits matured and the rate of moisture decline was more between 21st and 49th day after anthesis. Test weight was 0.082g on 21st day after anthesis which steadily increased to 0.356g by 53rd day after anthesis and thereafter it remained almost constant. Few seeds germinated at 41st day after anthesis and thereafter there was a sharp increase in germination between 41st and 49th day after anthesis smd reached maximum germination (96.0%) and vigour at 57th day after anthesis. The fruit colour was very deep yellow and started turning to brown at 57th day after anthesis.