Seed quality of Amburana cearensis (Allemão) A.C. Sm. (Fabaceae) is influenced by storage condition

Abstract: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of storage conditions on the germination of A. cearensis seeds. The experimental design was completely randomized into split plots over time with four replicates. The storage conditions of the airtight containers in the refrigerator and laboratory, paper bags in the laboratory and liquid nitrogen were assessed for 27 months. In the laboratory, we evaluated the germination, the germination rate, uniformity of germination, and total soluble and reducing sugars in the radicle. In the greenhouse, we evaluated seedling emergence, emergence rate and height of 30-day-old seedlings. Seeds stored in the refrigerator maintained a high initial germination rate, which decreased from the 21st month. Seeds stored in paper bags in the laboratory showed low emergence and small seedlings. Total soluble sugars and reducing sugars were mobilized when the seeds were stored at low temperatures. Thus, it is not advisable to store A. cearensis seeds in a laboratory environment without airtight containers. A. cearensis seeds kept in a refrigerated environment maintained their viability for at least two years.