Agricultural Biotechnology: Breeding Program

Foundation Seed

The basis of any plant breeding program is its germplasm, represented by breeder's or foundation seed. A limited inventory of foundation seed is maintained. These seed inventories are usually kept in more than one storage location and should be in secure storage facilities with controlled temperature and humidity. The controlled storage is tmaintains seed quality,helping insure viability and seedling vigor. Maintaining this inventory is one of the keys to a successful breeding program. Careful generation of foundation seed is an on going part of the breeding program. Watermelon seeds, if properly cleaned and dried and prepared for storage can keep for several years. Part of the administrative portion of the program is managing the foundation seed inventory.