Table 1.3-1. Effects of moisture content in seeds
| Seed moisture | Condition |
|---|---|
| 4-8% | Little or no insect activity (too dry for most insects). |
| 10-12% | Satisfactory to store most seeds in open storage and in cloth bags or moisture-resistant containers. |
| 14-16% | Molds (fungi) may grow on and in seeds in open storage and on seeds in cloth bags or sealed containers. Harmful to seeds of many plant kinds. |
| 18-20% | Seed may heat because of seed respiration and microbial activity. Seed declines rapidly in viability and vigor. |
| 24-60% | Seeds may rot. |
| 40-60% | Germination begins. |
