The seeds were conditioned in paper, cotton and permeable plastic bags, in cold and dry environment (15ºC and 40% RU) for four months. Initially, was tested the influence of the presence and absence continuos of white light and photoperiod of 12 h at 25ºC. The effect of constant temperatures (10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, and 40ºC) on germination was evaluated and cardinal temperatures were determined (minimum, optimum and maximum). Viability of the seeds was evaluated through germination tests at 60, 90, and 120 days. Imbibition velocity tests were carried out using samples proceeding from each storage package, at 30, 60, and 90 days. The storage packages utilized had no significant effect on the studied variables. The species studied was classified as neutral photoblastic at 25ºC, with a high average germination percentage, varying from 88 to 98%. Optimal germination temperature was of 35ºC, with a minimum at 20ºC and a maximum at 40ºC, in the absence of light. The utilized storage packages extended the viability of the seeds up to 120 days, with high germination percentages, varying from 88 to 97%. The seeds showed accelerated velocity of imbibition, reaching 100% from four hours of imbibition exposure on.
Tabebuia aurea; germination; light; cardinal temperatures; longevity
