Germination and Vigor of Erythrina velutina Willd. Seeds after Overcoming Dormancy

Abstract

Erythrina velutina Willd. is a tree native to the Northeast of Brazil, with significant economic potential due to its various uses. This increases anthropogenic pressures on the species, creating challenges for its conservation. In this context, the objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of different physical and chemical treatments on the germination of mulungu seeds. The treatments consisted of the control composed of intact seeds (T1), immersion in sulfuric acid for 5 (T2), 10 (T3) and 15 (T4) min, immersion in sulfuric acid for 5 (T5), 10 (T6) and 15 (T7) followed by immersion in water for 24 h, immersion in sulfuric acid for 5 (T8), 10 (T9) and 15 (T10) followed by immersion in water for 48 h, mechanical scarification (T11), mechanical scarification followed by immersion in water for 12 (T12), 24 (T13), 36 (T14) and 48 h (T15). The experiment was arranged in a completely randomized design (DIC), with four replications. The characteristics evaluated were: first germination count (PCG), germination (G), non-germinated seeds (SNG), hard seeds (SD), germination speed index (IVG), shoot length (CP) and root (CR), shoot dry mass (MSPA) and roots (MSR). The mechanical treatments with the aid of scissors and the chemical treatment with the immersion of the seed in sulfuric acid for 15 min facilitate the breaking of dormancy and germination of the mulungu seed, ensuring high germination.