Production of Tamarindus indica L. seedlings submitted to substrates and pre-germination methods

ABSTRACT The tamarind tree has problems of seed germination, and methods to overcome it are necessary. This study aimed to evaluate substrates and pre-germination methods in the production of tamarind seedlings. The experiment was carried out in a protected environment, using a randomized block experimental design, in a 5 x 4 factorial scheme, corresponding to five pre-germination methods (mechanical scarification with sandpaper and imbibition in water for 24 h, tegument cut and soaking in water for 24 h, soaking in water for 24 h, seed soaked in water with Trichoderma harzianum for 24 h and seed soaked in water containing T. longibrachiatum for 24 h) and four substrates [100 % of soil, soil + commercial substrate (3:2), soil + bovine manure (3:2) and soil + goat manure (3:2)]. The use of substrates formulated with soil + bovine manure and soil + goat manure in the production of Tamarindus indica L. seedlings provides a higher growth. The pre-germination methods of mechanical scarification and the use of seed soaking in both Trichodermas positively influence the growth and quality of seedlings.