Information on the physiological potential of carambola seeds is practically inexistent although interest in carambola production has been increasing steadily over recent years. The objective of this study was to investigate the immediate effect of convective drying at 38 ºC on seed germination and vigour. Germination tests under controlled laboratory conditions were done using rolled paper towels, whereas tests in a protected environment were done using a lightweight, commercial seed-starting medium. In a protected environment, convective drying increased the percentage germination from 74% (fresh seeds) to 98% (dried seeds). Vigour, as estimated from the germination speed index and the mean time of germination, did not vary, irrespective of drying. The curves representing plant growth rate and the dry mass accumulation rate of the aerial parts of the plant, show that seeds which had been dried gave rise to more vigorous plants.
Averrhoa carambola; germination; vigour indices
