Seed Coat Structural Differences that Influence Water Uptake and Seed Quality in Hard Seed Cotton¹

Abstract

Synopsis Water enters the seed by an opening in the palisade layer at the chalazal end. In hard seed this opening is made impervious by a chalazal cap and a seal between the cap and the palisade layer. In water at 80° C. the cap and seal become permeable, water enters and the palisade layer swells. Water entering through seed coat breaks has a similar effect on the palisade layer adjoining the chalazal cap.