Storage of physic nut seeds in different environments and packaging

Abstract

Seeds from the physic nut (Jatropha curcas L.) have orthodox characteristics and knowing the factors that affect their physiological qualities is necessary. The objective of this study was to identify the appropriate storage conditions for maintaining the physiological quality of physic nut seeds. Storage methods were evaluated using a randomized factorial 3x3+1 design, with factors constituted by three different packagings (Kraft paper bags, polythene bags and packaging in glass), three storage environments (laboratory room temperature, refrigerated chamber at 14-16 °C and a refrigerator at 4-6 °C) and with an initial assessment of the study material. The water content, first germination count in a controlled environment, emergence speed, percentage seed germination and Dickson's quality index for the seedlings 45 days after sowing in an environment of uncontrolled propagation, were evaluated. The characteristics of seed stored in glass containers and a refrigerated environment were maintained better and seeds can be stored for 180 days without any reduction in their physiological quality.