Optimum conditions for seed propagation of Garcinia brasiliensis: mimicking natural habitats allows better results

Abstract

Garcinia brasiliensis is a tropical tree species of economic importance to local populations in the Amazon and Atlantic forests. The plant propagation of this species occurs mostly through seeds and despite that very little information about seedling emergence and growth is currently available. Here we assessed basic information on the seed and seedling ecophysiology of G. brasiliensis aiming at providing key details for seed propagation. Seeds are large and contain high levels of water when recently collected (c. 50%). Seed storage, especially under low temperature, resulted in very low seedling emergence. Fruit storage at c. 25 °C, on the other hand, was demonstrated to be the best option for maintaining seed viability in the short term. Removal of the seed coat considerably hastened and increased the percentage emergence of seedlings, despite the light condition. Similarly, a higher percentage and index of seedling emergence was observed under 35 °C over 25 °C, despite the substrate. Amongst all the substrates tested, sand resulted in lower seedling emergence. Cultivating seedlings in vermiculate and at 25 °C provided the best condition for root and shoot growth. Ideal conditions of light and temperature for seedling emergence and development mirror the environmental conditions under which plants of G. brasiliensis establish in nature.