Effect of the seed coat on water uptake and electrolyt leakage of sorghum (Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench) seeds

Four seed lots of sorghum cultivar IS 34213 were obtained which had been harvested early or at full maturity and then dried either swiftly in the sun or slowly in the shade. The earlier harvested seeds were lighter, smaller and of lower density. Earlier harvested seeds had pericarps which permitted faster water uptake and greater leakage of electrolytes. Water uptake and electrolyte leakage were positively correlated. The method of seed drying had no effect on water uptake or leakage. Greater leakage was associated with lower final germination. The results are interpreted in relation to germination testing.