PHYSIOLOGICAL MATURITY INDICATORS FOR “IPÊ ROXO” SEEDS (Tabebuia impetiginosa (Mart.) Standl.)

Abstract

This research determined physiological maturity indicators in Tabebuia impetiginosa seeds. In the period of August 6^th until October 6^th,  eight  collections  were  made in trees located in the Federal University of Lavras – UFLA,  Minas Gerais State and in its surroundings. After collections, water content, dry matter, fruits and seeds color; percentage of radicle emission;  normal  and  abnormal seedlings;  deteriorated  seeds  and  germination  index (GI) were determined.  The results obtained showed  that  when  the  fruits  started the dehiscence they present green color with purple points.  The  seeds  showed  green-brownish-yellow color.  At this point, the water content in the fruit and in the seeds  was  69.02%  and  50.98%,  respectively. The fruit and seeds dry matter were, respectively, 30.98g/100g  and 49.02g/100g  of  fresh  matter. The percentage of radicle emission was 73%; normal seedlings 53%, abnormal seedlings 20%; deteriorated seeds 27%; and GI 2.29%.  The  presence of cracks  and  green  spots  with  purple points in the fruits and green-brownish-yellow color in the seeds are good practical indicators to determine the time of harvesting Tabebuia impetiginosa seeds.