Cold plasma efficient to improve the germination of Pityrocarpa moniliformis after storage?

Abstract

The application of cold plasma has demonstrated effectiveness in overcoming dormancy in seeds, promoting germination. However, a comprehensive understanding of its long-term effects and during storage has not yet been fully understood. Thus, the objective was to evaluate the effect of atmospheric plasma on Pityrocarpa moniliformis seeds immediately and after a period of storage. The seeds were treated with plasma for different periods (0 to 5 minutes). After applying the treatment, 50% of the messages were subjected to a two-year storage period, while the remaining portion was sent for analysis. The germination test was carried out, extension in moistened substrate, and variables such as germination rate and germination speed index, length and dry biomass were evaluated. The experimental design was randomized, with regression analysis and multivariate analysis performed in the statistical software R. Plasma treatment resulted in an increase in the germination rate and vigor of P. moniliformis seeds, both immediately after exposure and after storage for two years. Notably, seeds treated for five minutes exhibited a germination rate of over 39%, standing out compared to other exposure intervals. Plasma demonstrated efficacy in overcoming integumentary dormancy in treated seeds for immediate exposure, being particularly efficient after storage after 5 minutes of exposure.