EVALUATION OF METHODS TO BREAK BRACHIARIA (Brachiaria brizantha cv. Marandu) SEED DORMANCY
Keywords:
braquiária, sementes, dormência, germinação, vigorAbstract
The aim of this study was to evaluate the methods to break dormancy of Brachiaria brizantha cv. Marandu seeds from a commercial lot by germination and accelerated aging (at 42ºC, for 48 hours) standard tests. The following treatments were applied: a) 15 minutes immersion in concentrated sulfuric acid; b) seeds perforation; c) 24 hours immersion in distilled water; d) 30 minutes immersion in water at 85ºC; e) glume removal; f) control (without treatment). The seed germination was evaluated, 7, 14 and 21 days after sowing. The most effective treatments to break Brachiaria brizantha seeds dormancy were the immersion in concentrated sulfuric acid, followed by the immersion in distilled water and glume removal, while hot water immersion showed to be inadequate to break seed dormancy. Under the conditions of the experiment, seed perforation treatment caused higher death rate. Scarification with concentrated sulfuric acid provided the best results as for seed germination and vigor. The immersion in distilled water at room temperature and glume removal may replace the acid scarification of seeds.Downloads
Published
2008-07-28
Issue
Section
Agronomy