Physiological conditioning of Crotalaria ochrotalaria ochroleuca seeds

Abstract

Crotalaria is one of the main crops used for green manure, nematode control and cane field reform. Knowledge and maintenance of seed quality is a relevant factor for establishing the appropriate stand. The aim of this work was to evaluate the effect of physiological conditioning on Crotalaria ochroleuca seeds. The treatments consisted of five polyethylene glycol solutions (PEG 6000) in concentrations of 0 (control); -0,2; -0,4; -0,6 and -0,8 MPa. Osmotic conditioning induced by PEG 6000 up to -0,8 MPa reduced germination and germination speed of Crotalaria ochroleuca seeds.