ABSTRACT
The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of alternative treatments and storage environment on the physiological and sanitary qualities of castor seeds. Treatments were: derosal, vitavax-thiram, sodium benzoate, potassium sorbate, trichodermil SP, rosemary, garlic, cinnamon, Indian clove and control treatment. The seeds were subjected to storage in laboratory and in a cold chamber for 12 months. Castor seeds chemically treated with derosal and vitavax-thiram showed physiological and sanitary quality superior to those of seeds treated with alternative products and without treatment at 12 months of storage. Castor seeds stored in laboratory, for a period longer than 8 months, must be treated with traditional chemical fungicides. If the seeds are stored in a cold chamber, the maintenance of their germination and vigor above 80% does not depend on the used fungicide treatment. The most promising alternative fungicides were trichodermil, potassium sorbate and garlic, especially the first product.
Keywords
sanity; germination; storage; fungus; vigor
