MÉTODOS DE REMOÇÃO DA SARCOTESTA PARA SUPERAÇÃO DE DORMÊNCIA EM SEMENTES DE MAMÃO

Abstract

The propagation process of papaya is mainly through seeds, however, germination is considered slow and uneven due to the incidence of dormancy. Seed analysis is a fundamental step in a seed production system, as it allows to know the real quality of a lot and, consequently, to make the correct decisions regarding its management. The objective of this study was to evaluate the physiological aspects of papaya seeds and seedling behavior submitted to dormancy breaking methods. The statistical design was completely randomized with eight treatments and four repetitions. The treatments consisted of: Sulfuric Acid, Hydrated Lime, Hot Water, Sodium Hypochlorite (16, 20, 24 and 28 hours) and Control. The following variables were analyzed: Moisture Degree, Electrical Seed Conductivity, Emergence, Emergence Speed Index, Plant Height, Root Length, Stem Diameter, Number of Leaves and Dry Matter. Treatments with lime and hypochlorite with 20 h and 24 h immersion were the ones that obtained the best seedling emergence results. The treatments with lime and hypochlorite with 24 hours of immersion obtained the highest results for emergence speed index, plant height and root length. The treatments with lime, hypochlorite 24 h and 28 hours of immersion presented the highest results of seedling dry mass. Considering the ease of purchase and use of the product, it is recommended to use the Hydrated Lime treatment to break papaya seed dormancy.