Seed quality of jalapeno pepper according to fruit maturation and post harvest rest

Abstract

Pepper seeds can show low germination rates and that, together with the unfamiliarity concerning their best harvest time, limits the seeds offering with maximum yield and vigor. This study aimed at evaluating the emergence of jalapeno pepper seeds obtained from fruits harvested at 128 days after sowing, with two maturation stages (green and red) and stored for 0, 7, 14, 21 and 28 days, before the seeds extraction. The seeds physiological quality was evaluated by using the tests of emergence percentage, first emergence counting, emergence rate index and electrical conductivity. It was possible to conclude that, independently of the fruit maturation stage, the post harvest rest of seeds inside the fruit increased their vigor. The post harvest rest for 28 days inside green fruits showed to be ideal for a complete seed development and higher physiological quality.