Temperature Influence and Relative Humidity in corn Seed Storage Systems (Zea Mays L.) on their Germination Strength

This study aimed to evaluate the influence of temperature and relative humidity on the germination percentage of Matuba maize variety in the fields of small-scale producers in the Maniquenique area. As maize grain production in the community increases every year, the storage capacity does not evolve at the same pace. The main issue is the storage system used, which does not ensure the safety or quality of the maize. The study was therefore carried out to demonstrate the importance of storing maize in ideal conditions (temperature and relative humidity), using a sample of 302 silos. However, due to the coinciding drought during the data collection period, only 30 silos were sampled, with 10 from each storage system containing seeds from previous agricultural seasons. After testing, it was found that temperature and relative humidity influence the germination of maize grains stored in these systems. The seeds in the drums had a low emergence rate of 72.3%, whereas the recommended rate is 85%. The emergence coefficient was 42.6%. while the seeds in bags had better results, with an emergence percentage of 90.9% and an emergence speed coefficient of 49.7%, followed by the drums with an emergence rate of 86.1% and an emergence speed coefficient of 44.1%.