Ginger Seed Saver Quiz Quiz

Explore key concepts in proper ginger seed storage with practical scenarios and horticultural best practices. Understand how environmental factors and handling influence viability and quality in agricultural settings.

1. Ideal Storage Temperature

   When storing ginger rhizomes as seed material, what is the most suitable temperature range to maintain viability during dormancy?

   1. 10-12°C
   2. 18-22°C
   3. 2-4°C
   4. 28-30°C

   Explanation: Ginger seed rhizomes are best stored at 10-12°C to reduce sprouting and decay while preserving viability. Lower temperatures like 2-4°C can cause chilling injury, while 18-22°C or 28-30°C increases sprouting and risk of rot. Thus, 10-12°C strikes the necessary balance for optimal storage.

2. Choosing Healthy Seed Rhizomes

   Which key characteristic should you look for when selecting ginger seed rhizomes for storage before planting?

   1. Dry and shriveled
   2. Already sprouting shoots
   3. Plump and disease-free
   4. Very small segments

   Explanation: Healthy, plump, and disease-free rhizomes store better and have the best chance of vigorous growth. Dry and shriveled rhizomes have poor viability, very small segments lack sufficient reserves, and those already sprouting shoots deplete energy during storage.

3. Preventing Mold and Rot

   To reduce mold and rot during ginger seed storage, farmers often take which precaution?

   1. Curing rhizomes before storage
   2. Washing rhizomes thoroughly just before storage
   3. Storing in sealed plastic bags
   4. Exposing rhizomes to direct sunlight daily

   Explanation: Curing helps wounds heal, reduces moisture loss, and forms a protective layer, minimizing infection risks. Washing before storage leaves excess moisture that promotes rot, sealed plastic bags trap humidity, and daily sun exposure causes excessive drying and reduction of seed quality.

4. Humidity Management

   What relative humidity level is generally recommended to maintain during ginger seed storage to balance dehydration and fungal risk?

   1. 65-70%
   2. 90-95%
   3. 40-45%
   4. 20-25%

   Explanation: A relative humidity of 65-70% prevents both excessive dehydration and fungal growth. Lower humidity like 20-25% causes desiccation; higher levels such as 90-95% encourage mold and rot, while 40-45% may still be too dry for optimal viability.

5. Best Storage Container Material

   Which type of storage material is commonly recommended to promote ventilation and minimize post-harvest loss of ginger seed rhizomes?

   1. Slatted wooden crates
   2. Plastic containers with sealed lids
   3. Airtight glass jars
   4. Metal cans lined with paper

   Explanation: Slatted wooden crates provide good air circulation, reducing moisture buildup and spoilage. Airtight glass jars and plastic containers trap humidity, while metal cans with paper lining do not offer sufficient ventilation for ginger seed storage.