Seed quality, growth and yield of several shallot varieties (Allium cepa var aggregatum L.) under different storage conditions.

Seed storage conditions and the availability of shallot seeds are critical factors in the development of shallots. The main objective of this study was to determine the ideal storage conditions for several varieties of shallot (Allium cepa var aggregatum L.) on the physical quality of seeds, growth and yield of shallots. This research was conducted at the Experimental Garden, Indonesian Vegetables Research Institute, West Java. This research was conducted using a split-plot design with two replications. The main plot was a storage room which consists of three storage conditions, namely the growth chamber (temperature 1-2°C), shallot storage room (temperature 29-30°C), and room temperature (22.5°C). The subplot consists of seven shallot varieties, namely Bima Brebes, Mentes, Trisula, Pancasona, Pikatan, Kuning and Katumi. Firstly, the seed is stored in the storage area and afterwards is planted in the field. Observation parameters included seed quality after storage, growth components and yield components. The results showed the interaction effect of seed storage conditions and cultivars on the number of seeds that grew (%) on day 5 DAP and the dry weight of bulbs per hectare (tons). Kuning cultivar stored in the growth chamber (1-2°C) produced the highest dry weight (9.08 tons) compared to all combinations of storage space and varieties unless stored in shallot storage (29-30°C). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]