Fruit sizes and methods of seed extraction in Physalis physiological potential

Abstract

Physalis peruviana L., a small fruit belonging to the Solanaceae family, is known for the high vitamins A and C, iron, and phosphorus content. As it presents numerous opportunities for adding value to family producers, it has been gaining space in the consumer market. Characteristics such as fruit size and seed extraction methods can interfere with the physiological potential of the seeds. Thus, the objectives of this study were to evaluate the relationship between fruit size and physiological quality of Physalis seeds and to establish an effective method for the extraction of its seeds. The experiment was conducted at the Phytotechnics Laboratory of the State University of Londrina, using a completely randomized design in a 3×2 factorial scheme, with 4 replications of 50 seeds. The factors consisted of three fruit sizes (small, medium, and large) and two extraction methods (manual and mechanical). The averages obtained were compared using the Tukey test (p ≤ 0.05). After 28 days of germination, the following evaluations were made: percentage of germination, first germination count, germination speed index, length, and dry mass of seedlings. The physiological potential of the seeds was influenced by the size of the fruits. The method of manual seed extraction proved to be superior and more efficient than the mechanical method.