PRODUCTION OF GENIPA AMERICANA L. SEEDLINGS: GERMINATION AND INITIAL GROWTH IN THE NURSERY

Abstract

Seedling production of native forest species is a bottleneck for the recovery of degraded areas in Brazil. This study aimed to monitor and describe the production of Genipa americana L. (Jenipapo) seedlings, from sowing to the hardening stage, focusing on germination rate, initial height growth, and occurrence of phytosanitary disorders. The study was conducted in a nursery at the Federal University of Paraíba, using seeds soaked in water for 8 hours to break dormancy. The substrate used was purchased from Mata Pau-Ferro, and daily irrigation and cultural management were carried out. Fifty days after sowing, 100% germination was achieved, confirming the high efficiency of the soaking technique. At 90 days, the seedling height was 4.0 cm, with the majority (64%) concentrated in the 3.0 to 4.5 cm range, characterizing the slow initial development typical of the species. Phytosanitary events, such as caterpillar attacks and leaf curl symptoms, were observed, indicating the need for constant monitoring. It is concluded that the combination of appropriate pre-germination treatments and effective crop management is essential for the production of vigorous genipap seedlings, a promising species for reforestation and conservation programs.