Methods of chemical scarification and their effects on the germination of seeds of (Ochroma pyramidale Cav. ex Lam. Urb)
Introduction: Ochroma pyramidale is a species with high restorative potential and adapts easily in disturbed areas; however, seed germination is affected by being orthodox and experiencing dormancy.
Knowledge gaps: Variation in germination capacity between different treatments and different environmental conditions.
Objectives: To evaluate the germination percentage of O. pyramidale seeds by means of different chemical scarification methods.
Methodology: An experimental design of three blocks, three replicates and 15 test units was applied. The treatments were: T1 (hot water at 80°C), T2 (0.5% NaCIO), T3 (1.0% NaCIO), T4 (2.0% NaCIO), T5 (1% HCl).
Results and conclusions: Germination of O. pyramidale seeds in all treatments started on the fourth day after sowing with some differences in germinated seeds between treatments with respect to the first day of germination with some variations between treatments. The highest percentage of germination occurred in treatment 1 (T1) with 88 seeds (59%), followed by treatment 2 (T2) with 65 (43%). Treatment 1 (water 80°C) had the greatest influence on the germination of O. pyramidale seeds. Therefore, boiling treatments not only contributed to increase germination, but also the seeds achieved a higher germination rate.