Physiological and sanitary quality, and transmission of fungi associated with Brachiaria brizantha (Hochst. ex. A. Rich.) Stapf seeds submitted to thermal and chemical treatments

Abstract

The Brazilian pastures establishment success depends on the use of seeds with high physiological and sanitary quality. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of thermal and chemical treatments on quality of Brachiaria brizantha, cv. BRS Piatã and pathogen transmission via seed. The treatments included the use of fungicides, detergent, sodium hypochlorite, sulfuric acid and alcohol, as well as thermal treatments. In addition to seeds without treatment, nine treatments were tested. The tests used to assess the physiological quality of the seeds were first and final count of germination test and root protrusion; germination and root protrusion speed index. A transmitting test and filter paper method had been performed for sanitary quality. Fungal lower incidence was observed in seeds treated with alcohol, however, this treatment reduced the physiological quality of the seeds and higher frequency of fungi transmission from seeds to seedlings was observed for Bipolaris sp., Fusarium sp. and Phoma sp. Treatment with sulfuric acid provided a better seed germination performance and reduced the incidence of fungi.