Physiological and sanitary quality of chickpea seeds obtained in different sowing dates¹

Qualidade fisiológica e sanitária de sementes de grão-de-bico obtidas em diferentes épocas de semeadura

Due to its nutritional relevance and edaphoclimatic adaptability, several studies have been carried out on chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.); however, further information about growing periods is still needed, especially regarding the quality of seeds in regions outside the Cerrado (Brazilian Savanna). This study aimed to analyze the physiological and sanitary quality of chickpea seeds (BRS Cristalino cultivar) obtained from different sowing dates in the central region of the Rio Grande do Sul state, Brazil. Seeds from nine sowing dates, between July and October, were evaluated. Germination, first count, seedling length and mass, and electrical conductivity tests were also performed, as well as pathogen incidences. The sowing dates influenced the incidence of Rhizopus spp. and the evaluated physiological parameters, except for root dry mass and length. The seeds showed a high incidence of Fusarium spp. and Aspergillus flavus, but it was the presence of Rhizopus spp. that negatively affected their vigor and viability. Unfavorable climate conditions at the end of flowering and close to harvests, especially between September and October, limited the seed performance. Minimum air temperatures below 10 ºC did not prevent germination and plant development. The production of chickpea seeds in the central region of Rio Grande do Sul is feasible with sowing at the end of July, since the lots showed germination rates equal to or greater than 80 %, meeting the requirements of seed marketing standards.

KEYWORDS:
Cicer arietinum L.; Rhizopus spp.; seed germination; climate stress; seed-associated fungi.