New approaches to seed vigor testing

Abstract

Among the principles used for the evaluation of seed vigor, two approaches are predominant: seed resistance to stresses and the direct or indirect identification of the "current" state of the seeds, e.g., enzymatic activity, integrity of the cellular membranes, growth parameters. In this presentation recent innovations are discussed in procedures for seed vigor evaluation emphasizing the methodologies of accelerated aging with salt saturated solutions, controlled deterioration and potassium leachate tests. These tests, performed at seed the laboratory of ESALQ/USP, in function of their simplicity and efficiency, deserve the attention of seed technologists.

Keywords

• seed testing, vigor
• accelerated aging
• controlled deterioration
• potassium leachate