April 15, 2025

Front cover

A detailed study on international methodology and the impact on seed quality. 1st Edition
by JVZ Pretorius (Author)

Short Description

Onion seed is produced throughout the temperate and subtropical countries of the world and is a highly specialized industry where years of experience are required to become skilled in the best cultural practices, cultivars characteristics, rogueing, insect and disease control, pollination, harvesting, drying, thrashing and cleaning.

Due to the long period (2 years) of the preferred production method (bulb-to-seed), risk factors in onion seed production are much higher in relation to the production of other vegetable seed crops. In onion seed production the risk is especially high in the second year of production after the bulbs have been planted. Key risk areas during this stage include vernalization, seed stalk emergence and development as well as disease and insect control during this stage, pollination (low attractiveness of onion nectar and pollen to bees which are the main pollinators), harvesting of seed umbels and the drying of the seed crop.

This book focuses on only one of the abovementioned key risk areas and that is the drying of the harvested seed and specifically the seed drying method used. Seed drying is one of the few factors that can be largely controlled and although it is but one of many playing a role in the viability and quality of the seed, it could be a very important factor in especially the storage life of the seed which in turn is of the utmost importance to seed companies and the seed trade.

Chapters cover seed quality and testing, sustainability, harvesting, drying and cleaning methodology used internationally and research on the impact of drying on viability, quality and shelve life. Horticultural students, seed growers and seed professionals will gain valuable insight into this very important aspect of onion seed production.

Back cover

Product details:

• Publisher ‏: ‎ SASI, 1st edition (April 2025)
• Language : ‎ English
• Paperback‏ : ‎ 149 pages

• ISBN: 978-1-0370-3851-8 (print)

• ISBN: 978-1-0370-3852-5 (e-book)
• Dimensions ‏ : ‎ A5: 14,8 x 21 x 1cm (5.8 x 8.3 x 0,4 in )
• Shipment: Local and international shipment. Price excludes shipment           

Price:

• E Book:               $35
• Paperback:      $50

For purchases, please contact info@sasinternational.co.za