Viability and Vigor of Annona squamosa, L. Seeds in Different Substrates

Abstract

The Annona squamosa belongs to the Annonaceae family and is native to Tropical Americas and the West Indies. Its fruit can be consumed fresh, but it is also used in various foods such as purees, ice creams, mousses, yogurts, and traditional juices. For this reason, its economic relevance in Brazil has been significant, driven by the growing demand in the consumer market. The production of quality seedlings depends on various factors, with substrate composition being of great importance. The germination of seeds, root initiation, and rooting are directly linked to the chemical, physical, and biological characteristics of the substrate. The experiment was conducted at the Federal Institute of Education, Science, and Technology of Tocantins, in the city of Gurupi - TO, between March 4, 2022, and August 22, 2022. Seeds of Annona squamosa were taken from the fruit itself and sown in the following substrates: Washed sand; Commercial substrate + rice husk + chicken manure; Black soil; Black soil + coconut shell powder + commercial substrate. The substrate black soil + coconut shell powder + commercial substrate provided higher viability and vigor values in Annona squamosa seeds.