Physical, physiological, and sanitary quality of Myrocarpus frondosus Allemão diaspores stored in different environments

Abstract

Cabreúva (Myrocarpus frondosus Allemão) is a native species with ecological, ornamental, medicinal, and timber potential. This study aimed to evaluate the physical, physiological, and sanitary quality of Myrocarpus frondosus diaspores over 360 days in different storage environments. The initial characterization of the batch included the weight of 1,000 seeds, moisture content, electrical conductivity, germination potential (with substrates being between and on sand or vermiculite, and a paper roll) and sanitary quality (blotter test). The diaspores were stored in a room with ambient conditions, a dry and cold room, a wet and cold chamber, and a refrigerator. Evaluations were performed at 0, 90, 180, 270, and 360 days. The substrates between sand and between vermiculite are recommended for the germination of diaspores. Diaspores showed no recalcitrant behavior in relation to storage and can be stored in a dry and cold room (18 °C and 49% RH) for 360 days, with 57% germination. Fungal incidence increased the deterioration of the diaspores after 180 days of storage in a cold and dry environment.