Physiological maturity of Physalis angulata L. seeds

ABSTRACT Determination of seed physiological maturity allows predicting the most appropriate time for harvest, aiming to obtain seeds with high physiological potential. Physalis angulata (Solanaceae) has pharmacological and agro-industrial potential, but there is little information on its reproductive phenology. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the physiological maturity of P. angulata seeds according to fruit age. Fruits were harvested at 7, 14, 21, 28 and 35 days after anthesis (DAA) and the following evaluations were conducted: fruit weight and diameter, seed moisture content, 100-seed dry weight, 1000-seed weight, electrical conductivity, germination, germination first count, emergence, and seedling dry weight and length. The experimental design was completely randomized. Fruit weight and diameter increased until 35 DAA and seed dry weight increased until 21 DAA. Highest seed physiological potential occurred at 35 DAA, with highest germination percentage (97%). The results allow concluding that P. angulata seeds become physiologically viable from 21 DAA, with highest physiological potential at 35 DAA. However, harvest should be carried out around 28 DAA, before fruits fall.