Germination of <i>Bidens sulphurea</i> (Cav) Sch. Bip. achenes in different substrates

Abstract

B. sulphurea is a species with ornamental potential due to its beautiful inflorescence. The objective of this work was to determine the appropriate substrate for germination and vigor tests of this species. The achenes were sown into and on the substrates sand, blotting paper, coconut fiber, Tropstrato^® and vermiculite and lead to B.O.D. incubator regulated at 25°C and regimen of continuous light. The following parameters were also evaluated: germination (%), first germination count (%), germination speed index, average germination period (days) and primary root length (cm). The substrates into and on vermiculite and blotting paper provided the highest seed germination and vigor in the B. sulphurea achenes.