Physiological quality of crambe seeds submitted to drying

The crambe shows potential for being grown in tropical regions, especially in the central-west of Brazil, and can be considered as another option on the limited list of species available for off-season farming. However, any expansion of the area used for the cultivation of this Brassicacea, will only take place with the supply of quality seeds, and for that, knowledge of drying procedures are relevant. This study was carried out in order to evaluate the physiological quality of crambe seeds which had undergone drying. To do this, seeds having five different levels of moisture (10, 12, 15, 20, 22% w.b.) were evaluated, after being subjected to five drying temperatures (30, 40, 50, 60 and 70 degrees C). The tests used in the analysis were: germination, first count, seedling length and electrical conductivity. It can be concluded that temperatures between 40 and 60 degrees C afforded better physiological performance in the tests of the viability and vigour of the crambe seeds. A temperature of 70 degrees C was detrimental to the physiological performance of the seeds. Water content above 12% w.b. at temperature ranges of between 40-60 degrees C can help break the dormancy of crambe seeds.