Seed quality in relation to fruit maturation and seed dry weight during development in tomato

Variation in seed quality during maturation was determined in tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) in two subsequent years in order to relate to changes in seed dry weight and fruit maturity. Seed quality was assessed by germination at low (15, 18 degreesC and high (35 degreesC) temperatures, germination at low water potential (-0.5 Mpa), emergence percentage and seed quality constant (Ki). Seed dry weight did not change between 60 and 90 and 50 and 80 Days After Anthesis (DAA) in 1998 and 1999, respectively. Whereas, seeds harvested 70 DAA attained not only maximum germination under stress conditions but also maximum emergence and Ki values in both years. Delayed harvests (80, 90 DAA) caused decline in seed quality. Results showed that occurrence of maximum tomato seed quality is related to changes in fruit colour but not in seed dry weight.