Parâmetros indicativos do ponto de colheita de sementes de milho

Abstract

The aim of this study was to identify the ideal maize seeds harvest moment by different parameters, like black layer formation, milk line development, seeds moisture content and seeds dry matter. Four genotypes that are used as female parental to produce commercial hybrids maize seeds, were used in this work. Ears from plants in the same devellopment stage were collected. Seeds harvest began 40 days after the flowering at intervals of four days, until physiological maturity point. Morphological parameters evaluated were black layer formation, milk line development, seeds moisture content and seeds dry matter. Seeds physiological quality was evaluated by germination test, dry matter of seeds,1000 seeds weight, cold test, accelerated ageing and electrical conductivity.. According to results of this study, the best indicative to ideal seeds harvest moment was between 52 and 60 days after flowering (DAF). This was the moment in which seeds presented high vigour and at the same time, prevented seeds exposure to adverse weather conditions.