Evaluation of stratification methods for dormancy break of Ilex paraguariensis St. Hil. seeds

Abstract

Three lots of Ilex paraguariensis St. Hil. seeds from different origin were tested to determine the most proper stratification method to break seed dormancy. The seed lots were submitted, during six months to treatments of light and temperature alternation, addition of giberelic acid and potassium nitrate, low temperatures, and stratification in field and laboratory conditions. The evaluation of seed germination percentages were performed bimonthly. There were significative differences in the response of the seed lots to the stratification methods. The methods involving light and temperature alternation and addition of potassium nitrate were the most adequate to reduce the period of Ilex paraguariensis dormancy.