The objective of this research was to evaluate the influence of fruit maturation on the physiological quality of seeds and on initial growth of Copernicia hospita. Treatments were arranged into a 2 x 3 x 2 factorial, with four replications. The factors were made up of two fruit colourings (yellow-green and dark), three types of propagules (whole fruits, pulped fruits and seeds), and with and without soaking for five days and arranged in a completely randomized design. The observation variables were: percentage, speed and average emergence time; plant height; stem diameter; dry mass of the aerial part and root system. Dark colored fruits, regardless of the propagule type, and pulped yellow-green fruit, with or without soaking, are superior, having a higher percentage for emergence and speed index, and a lower average emergence time. Soaking the propagules increases the stem diameter and dry mass of the aerial part and the roots.
Carnaubeira; Fruits-maturation; Seed-quality
