Seed Development and Maturation

Abstract In plants, a fascinating set of post-fertilization events result in the development dispersal unit known as seed. During maturation phase, seeds accumulate storage reserves and acquire desiccation tolerance, followed by an increase seed vigour during drying. Physiological (or mass) maturity may be attributed to stage when maximum dry matter accumulation has occurred, marking end seed-filling phase. The at harvest is one most important factors that can influence quality seeds. Recent studies established longevity continue even after physiological maturity, signifying importance late phase for maximizing quality. Among plant hormones, abscisic acid (ABA) been studied extensively its role maturation. Apart from ABA, gibberellic (GA), cytokinin auxin also play critical Desiccation tolerance begins much before attainment maturity. Acquisition associated with embryo oligosaccharides raffinose family, low molecular weight antioxidants, embryogenesis abundant proteins heat shock coupled structural changes cellular level. To obtain (in terms germination, longevity), harvesting needs performed or slightly period which moisture content stabilizes environmental factors. this chapter, attempt made present current understanding concentrating on various aspects viz. phases development, other affecting concepts relevance quality, indices crop plants acquisition