Germination and survival of Aechmea gamosepala on different substrates

Abstract

The State of Parana is one of the Brazilian regions with the highest incidence of extraction of bromeliads, among the factors for the occurrence of this situation, they highlight a great demand for this species as ornamental flowers and the easy access to forests, few cultivation ponds and difficulties for farmers in cultivation processes, especially in the early stages of cultivation. The species Aechmea gamosepala Wittmack stands out among the species of this group of ornamental plants (Bromeliaceae) with strong commercial appeal and consequently of extraction. Given this context, a study was carried out to evaluate the germination and survival of seeds of the species. Five alternative types of substrates easily accessible to farmers were tested: coconut husk fiber, Plantmax®, earthworm humus, humidified Pinnus husk and sieved agricultural land. The experiment was conducted in a completely randomized design with 4 replications and 25 seeds per experimental unit at room temperature in a greenhouse, with sprinkler irrigation for a period of 90 days. The mean time for the onset of germination was 6.95 days, averaging 74.8% at the peak of germination, but there were no significant statistical differences between the treatments. For the seedling survival, humidified Pinnus husk substrates (70.8%) and coconut fiber house (80.4%) proved to be the best substrates for Aechmea gamosepala Wittmack.