Overcoming dormancy and viability of pecan seeds (Carya illinoinensis) subjected to different physical methods

Superação de dormência e viabilidade de sementes de nogueira-pecã (Carya illinoinensis) submetidas a diferentes métodos físicos

This study evaluated physical treatments for overcoming dormancy in pecan seeds. Treatments combining refrigeration, disinfestation, scarification, and stratification were tested, and significant effects were observed on emergence, emergence speed index, and seedling height. The treatment involving refrigeration followed by scarification and stratification produced the best results; however, overall values remained low when compared with those reported in previous studies. The limited emergence was likely associated with reduced seed viability due to storage conditions. These findings suggest that pecan seed emergence can be improved by combining physical treatments, while also highlighting the need for further studies on storage conditions that preserve seed viability and promote more successful seedling establishment.

Keywords:
Seed dormancy; Cold stratification; Scarification; Seed viability