Secagem de frutos e fazes de maturação de sementes de Pentaclethra macroloba (Willd.) Kuntze (Lguminosae, Caesalpinioideae) provenientes de várzea alta e baixa.

Abstract

Pentaclethra macroloba (Willd.) Kuntze seeds exhibit heterogeneous maturation and are dispersed with high water content, making them more susceptible to deterioration and difficult to harvest. Therefore, the study aimed to evaluate the influence of drying on the physiological quality of P. macroloba seeds collected in different floodplain conditions and maturation stages. The fruits were collected in high and low floodplain environments, in three maturation stages (P1: green; P2: yellowish-green; P3: black), and were subjected to artificial drying at 23°C for seven days. The seeds were analyzed for water content, viability and vigor. The results showed that the seeds of stage 3 presented the greatest physiological potential and vigor, followed by stage 2, with superior performance in the seeds from the low floodplain. Seed mortality was not influenced by drying. In addition, drying promoted greater uniformity in the germination process. It is concluded that P. macroloba seeds can be harvested in phase 3, in a low-lying floodplain environment, ensuring the maintenance of physiological quality. These findings are important for management and conservation practices of the species, contributing to sustainable use and production of high-quality seedlings.