Contribution for the otimization of nursery production of Retama sphaerocarpa (L.) Boissier

Mestrado em Gestão e Conservação de Recursos Naturais - Instituto Superior de Agronomia / Universidade de ÉvoraThe aim of this study was to optimize nursery production of Retama sphaerocarpa. Two seed propagation tests were performed, one with stored seed (1 and 2 years) and other with fresh seed. Germination rate and vigor index were determined for both tests, which were carried out by subjecting the seeds to scarification by two agents, sulfuric acid (96% concentration) and hot water (80ºC), the former for 60 minutes and the latter for 30 seconds, plus an untreated control. Influence of seed conservation period and of parent individuals on germination rate and vigor was also tested. The scarification of seeds using sulfuric acid was found to be the best production method for this species, clearly evident by the highest germination rates (>70%) and the very fast vigor index obtained for fresh and 1 year stored seed. Seed with 2 years of storage showed significant lower germination results than seeds with 1 year of storage. Differences between individuals were also evident and could influence germination success. The technical and economical viability for seed production of this species was confirme