Sodium hypochlorite for removal of the sarcotesta from newly extracted and stored papaya seeds

Abstract: The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of sodium hypochlorite on removal of the sarcotesta and the germination process of newly harvested papaya seeds before and after storage for 44 days. Nine treatments were evaluated using a completely randomized design with six treatments in a split plot arrangement and three additional treatments (control), each treatment with eight replications. The plots consisted of methods for breaking dormancy: M1 - sieve method + drying to 7%, M2 - sieve method + drying to 7% + NaOCl, and M3 - NaOCl + drying to 7%. The split plots consisted of different storage periods (0 and 44 days). The three additional treatments consisted of A - NaOCl at 6% for 12 hours, B - sieve method, and C - intact seeds in running water for 24 hours. Germination and the first count of germination were evaluated. Results showed that sodium hypochlorite is effective in removal of the sarcotesta, but there is a negative effect on germination. Storage for 44 days also had a negative effect on germination. Removal of the sarcotesta by the sieve method followed by drying to 7% moisture content was effective in promoting germination of papaya seeds.