The study evaluated the maintenance effect of Mepiquat chloride on the early development of cotton plants as a function of doses and application methods of regulating and storing seeds. The seeds were treated with 120 IPR solutions Mepiquat Chloride (250 g a.i. L-1) at doses of 0.0; 5.0; 10.0; 15.0 and 20.0 g a.i. kg-¹ seed, via soaking for 12 hours, and via direct application in seeds. At 0, 60, 120 and 180 days after the treatment the seeds were sown in pots and weekly were determined height and leaf area and, after 28 days, the stem diameter and dry mass of stems and leaves. Data were subjected to analysis of variance and comparisons of means by Tukey test at 5%, under the completely randomized design with four replications in a factorial 5 x 2 (doses and application forms), independently, for each storage period.. The mean doses were subjected to regression studies. Independent of the application, Mepiquat Chloride reduces stem diameter, dry mass of stems and leaves, leaf area and plant height. The form of application and storage of seeds treated for 180 days did not interfere with the action of the regulator. The regulatory action of growth Mepiquat Chloride lasts at least until 28 DAE, independent of the application form, dose and storage period of seeds.
Gossypium hirsutum L.; Plant growth regulator; Imbibition; Direct application
