Seed germination and seedling vigor of Magonia pubescens

Abstract

The timbó (Magonia pubescens A. St.-Hil.) is a tree species of the family Sapindaceae occurring naturally in the Cerrados of Central Brazil. The objective of this study is to verify the influence of seed size, pre-soaking time in water and seedling production containers in the development of timbó seedlings. The experiment was completely randomized with a 2 × 3 × 2 factorial design (two seed sizes, three pre-soaking times in water and two seedling production containers) with four replicates composed of six containers, each containing one seed. Large seeds presented a better germination and a greater expressiveness of the characteristics evaluated in seedlings. The pre-soaking of seeds did not interfere with the final percentage of germination. However, it accelerated the germination process, favoring the formation of normal seedlings. The polyethylene bag favored base diameter, length and root fresh matter.