RESUMO
<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To study the optimum storage methods of Pinellia ternata from Sichuan.</p><p><b>METHOD</b>Nine methods were used to overwintering storage of the seed-stem of P. ternata from Sichuan. The germination of seed-stem was observed through the following year after planting, then the germination percentage, vigor of germination and germination index were calculated. At the seedling stage, the physiological indexes like rooting number, root length, root activity, chlorophyll content and catalase activity etc. were determined.</p><p><b>RESULT</b>Under the different storage conditions, all the tested indexes of P. ternata from Sichuan were significantly different between each other (P < 0.05), except the chlorophyll content.</p><p><b>CONCLUSION</b>The seed-stem of P. ternata from Sichuan should be preserved in the wet sand (or in soil) in a greenhouse or 4 degrees C refrigerator. Under these conditions, the germinating vigor and growth activity of seed-stem performed the best.</p>