Emergence and vigor of papaya genotypes seedlings according to irradiance

Abstract

Luminosity influences seed emergence in the initial development of papaya plants, being necessary the identification of the ideal irradiance level for plantule establishment and formation of vigorous seedlings. This study aimed to evaluate the seed emergence and seedlings vigor of four papaya genotypes, under different irradiance levels. Carica papaya L. seeds, from the Caliman 01 hybrid, Golden THB, triple hybrid and JS12 x Waimanalo hybrid genotypes, were evaluated under four irradiance levels (60 mmol m^-2 s^-1, 130 mmol m^-2 s^-1, 580 mmol m^-2 s^-1 and 1,200 mmol m^-2 s^-1). A completely randomized design, in a 4x4 split-plot scheme, with four replications, was used. The emergence percentage and speed index were evaluated. The seedlings were measured at 45 and 120 days after sowing (DAS), concerning root and shoot length and dry matter, being calculated the root/shoot ratio and absolute growth rate at 120 DAS. The full sun affected emergence, while the low irradiance affected seedling growth. The intermediate irradiance (130 mmol m^-2 s^-1 and 580 mmol m^-2 s^-1) was more suitable to the development of papaya seedlings up to 120 DAS. The Golden THB genotype was more sensitive to high irradiance, while the Caliman 01 and JS12 x Waimanalo hybrids tolerated the full sun condition.