Citronella Extract in the Control of Pathogens and in the Physiology of Soybean Seeds

Abstract

Extracts of specific plants may be option for the alternative treatment of seeds because in adequate concentrations they do not interfere in their physiology. The objective was to evaluate the effect of citronella extract on the control of pathogens and on the physiological quality of soybean seeds. The cultivars Sambaíba, Candeia and MSoy9350 were used. The seeds were treated with citronella extracts in concentrations of 5, 10 and 20%, immediately after being submitted to sanitary analysis, using the filter paper method. The germination analysis was in accordance with the Seed Analysis Rule and the vigor through the first count. The citronella extract at 20% differed significantly from the control, and provided higher values ​​of healthy seeds. All concentrations, especially 10 and 20%, negatively affected the vigor and germination of normal seedlings. The citronella extract provides a reduction of pathogens, but negatively affects the vigor and germination in the tested concentrations.