Seed vigor testing is an important component of quality control programs, and accelerated aging is a possible option in this process. This study was conducted to investigate procedures to assess seed vigor by the accelerated aging test in cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L. Walp) seeds. Samples from Setentão and Epace 10 cultivars, harvested in 1998, 2001, 2002 and 2003 were used. During the experimental period seeds were stored in plastic bags and kept at 10ºC and 50% R.H. Accelerated aging was performed at 40, 42 and 45ºC during 24, 48, 72 and 96 hours; seeds were kept in plastic boxes with 40mL of distilled water in a BOD chamber. Seeds were tested for germination and moisture content before and after aging. The best condition to evaluate physiological potential of cowpea seeds was the combination 42ºC/48 hours.
Vigna unguiculata; germination; physiological quality
