Short-term storage of Uapaca kirkiana seed

Fresh seeds of Uapaca kirkiana germinate readily following shedding or nursery sowing. Seed viability is short and fruit or seed storage under ambient conditions does not promote seed longevity. For short-term storage of up to eight weeks, seed should be cold stored (4-8 degrees C) in cloth bags to facilitate aeration. Cold storage of the fruits is only possible for up to four weeks. Further investigations are needed on the seed biology and optimal moisture content and temperature for medium or long-term storage of U. kirkiana seed. Fungal invasion associated with U. kirkiana seed or fruit in storage needs to be examined.