Interaction Effects of Harvest Maturity and Seed Position in the Pod on Seed Quality of Green Gram ( Vigna radiata L.)

The asynchronous flowering and pod maturity of mung beans create challenges for farmers, seed producers and researchers when establishing optimal seed selection practices. This study, conducted in Bunamhala Ward (Simiyu Region) and at Sokoine University of Agriculture (Morogoro, Tanzania), evaluated how harvest maturity and seed position within the pod affect seed quality in five Vigna radiata varieties. Field trials used a triplicate split‐plot design, while laboratory experiments employed a three‐factor factorial layout, both based on a randomised complete block design (RCBD). Harvesting was performed at 60, 70, 80 and 90 days after sowing and seeds were collected from basal, middle and apical pod positions. Significant differences emerged among varieties and harvest maturities for most seed quality traits at p = 0.05. Seed position notably impacted 1000‐seed weight, germination percentage and seedling vigour index II. The interaction between variety and harvest maturity influenced several seed quality parameters, while other interactions were minimal. The varieties Imara, Tari Green Gram 1 and Tari Green Gram 2, harvested at 70–80 days and from the basal end of the pod, exhibited the best quality. Additionally, a negative correlation was observed between seeds per pod and seed quality. These results highlight the crucial roles of harvest timing and seed position in improving green gram seed quality.