XVI International Botanical Congess

The present study aimed at assessing different storage environments and package types for the seeds of Dipteryx alata, an economically important tree of the Brazilian cerrado. The environments were cool chamber at 7°C, room at 20°C, and laboratory (no temperature control). Packages were kraft paper, folded polyethylene and vacuum-sealed polyethylene bags. Variations in seed moisture, viability and vigor were monitored during 12 months, at three-month intervals. The vigor parameters were the Czabator germination value and Maguire emergency speed index. In general, the percentage germination varied between 61 and 78% after one year (orthodox seed). Variations in moisture did not affect significantly seed germination and vigor. The best storage environments were the cool chamber at 7°C and the room at 20°C. There was no relevant difference among packages.