The effect of seed storage and post seeding light on germination and morphological aspects of young nispero seedlings (Manilkara zapota (Van Royen) (Jacq) Gill)

Abstract The effect of seed storage and levels of post-seeding light on germination and morphological aspects of seedlings of the "Criollo" Nispero strain were evaluated. A total of 400 seeds were planted in the plant nursery at the University of Zulia, Maracaibo, Venezuela. Treatments consisted of the combination of two light levels (0% and 60%) and two storage periods (0 and 5 months) at a temperature of 10 ± 1ºC. The response variable studied were percentage of germination (PG), rate of germination (TG), height of seedlings (AP) and length of root (LR). Germination began at 36 days after seeding, and increased slowly up to 42 days, a time period which remained constant thereafter (61-67%). Storage showed significant influence (P0.05) the variable studied. Better AP was obtained in seed planted with 0% light (9.22 cm) and greater LR (8.22 cm) in those under 60%. The lowest TG was found in seeds stored (36.69 days)