PHYSIOLOGICAL QUALITY OF CORN SEEDS IN RESPONSE TO DIRECT TILLING WITH COVER CROPS

Abstract

Seed quality directly influences the success of agricultural crops. In addition, the use of cover crops has influenced soil quality, providing positive yields in corn crops. Therefore, the objective of this study was to evaluate the physiological quality of corn seeds after the cultivation of cover crops in order to improve soil quality. A randomized block experimental design was used in a 2 × 6 factorial scheme, with 2 [1 corn cultivar (Robusta), 1 landrace corn variety (Pontinha) × 6 (5 cover crop species – Brachiaria ruziziensis; Crotalaria espectabilis; Crotalaria juncea; Pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan) and Millet (Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. Br.), plus the control (without cover), to evaluate the effects on seed production and physiological quality. It was observed that the cultivars and plant covers influenced the germination and vigor of corn seeds. Furthermore, the use of pigeon pea, Crotalaria juncea and millet as cover contributed positively to the increase in the dry mass of corn seedlings.