Exudate pH and primary root emergence tests in coriander seeds

ABSTRACT The use of efficient, fast, and low-cost tests is essential in seed quality control programs. The objective of this study was to adapt exudate pH and primary root emergence tests for coriander (Coriandrum sativum) seeds. A completely randomized experimental design was used, with four replications of 50 seeds. Four coriander (C. sativum cv. Super Verdão) seed batches were evaluated for moisture content, first count, germination, emergence, emergence speed index, seedling total dry weight, and subjected to accelerated aging and tetrazolium tests. Exudate pH tests were conducted using soaking times of 30, 60, 90, and 120 minutes at 20, 25, and 30 °C. Primary root emergence tests were conducted at 20, 25, and 30 °C, starting observations 24 hours after the beginning of the test at 12-hour intervals and concluding after 120 hours. The exudate pH test at 20 °C for 30 minutes classified the batches similarly to the germination test, but differently from vigor tests. The primary root emergence test conducted at 20 °C, with evaluation after 60 hours, effectively classifies the vigor of coriander seed batches.