ABSTRACT
The Salvia hispanica, known as chia, has high notability for its nutritional features, being rich in protein, fiber, minerals and fatty acids, which can be responsible for reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Although the consumption of the seed is increasing, there are few studies about the germination and vigor of the seeds. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of light and temperature on the physiologic potentiality of chia seeds (Salvia hispanica L.). The seeds were sowed on paper at constant temperatures of 20, 25 and 30 ºC in the presence or absence of light. The parameters evaluated were the following: percentage of germination, first count, germination speed index, length, and dry weight of the seedlings. The experimental design used was of complete randomized plots with four replications of 100 seeds. The germination of the chia seeds occurred in the presence or absence of light. The chia seeds, without dormancy, germinated better at the constant temperature of 20 ºC.
Keywords
medicinal plant; photoblastism; quality physiological
