Lithium chloride in seed germination and initial growth of Guajillo chili seedlings

ABSTRACT Objective: To evaluate the effects of Li supplied as Li chloride (LiCl) on the emergence of seeds and initial growth of chili (Capsicum annuum L.) seedlings var. Guajillo. Design/methodology/approach: Guajillo variety chili seeds were treated with five doses of Li chloride (0, 20, 50, 75, and 100 µM) during the germination phase. The treatments lasted 20 days. In this period, parameters related to seed germination and initial growth of seedlings were evaluated. With the data obtained, analysis of variance and comparison of means test (Duncan) were carried out with the SAS software. Results: The doses of LiCl evaluated did not affect the percentages of germination and relative germination, the coefficient of velocity of germination, the average velocity of germination, and the weights of fresh and dry seedling biomass. Doses of 25 and 50 mM LiCl favored the germination index and the seed vigor index. Likewise, they significantly increase the height of the stem. On the contrary, the 100 mM Li dose significantly reduced the relative radicle growth, the germination index and the stem height. Limitations on study/implications: This study used only a single Li source, so the effects that accompanying anions have, are unknown. Findings/conclusions: Low doses of LiCl have positive effects on shoot growth in the initial phase of seedling growth, without affecting germination parameters.