The effect of the physiological quality of the seeds on lettuce seedlings was established. Two lots of lettuce seeds cv. Regina and Vera with different levels of initial quality were used. These lots were selected based upon germination tests: first score, fast aging, electrical conductivity and emergence in gerbox. The effects of the quality levels on the seedling production were evaluated through the parameters: speed rate emergence tests, number of leaves, height of the aerial part, root length, dry and wet mass of the seedlings and classification of the vitality of the seedlings. The experiment was carried out in a completely randomized design with four replications. Seed quality of the cultivars Regina and Vera have a positive effect on the formation of seedlings 20 days after sowing. High physiological quality seeds produce a higher percentage of vigorous seedlings, with a larger number of leaves, taller seedlings with longer roots and bigger mass at 20 days of cultivation.
Lactuca Sativa; vegetables; physiological quality
