Biopriming Pinus cembroides Seeds: A Sustainable Approach to Improve Germination and Fungal Disease Management
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Abstract
Low germination rates and seed-borne pathogens restrict the propagation of Pinus cembroides Zucc. in arid and semi-arid regions of Mexico. This study evaluated the effect of biological treatments on seed physiological quality and phytosanitary status. Six treatments were tested: Trichoderma harzianum, Bacillus amyloliquefaciens, their combination, an ethanolic extract of Argemone mexicana, a chemical control (Captan), and an untreated control. Germination parameters (percentage, rate, vigor, and mean germination time) and fungal incidence were recorded. Statistical analysis revealed significant differences among treatments (p≤0.05), with botanical and biological agents outperforming the untreated control. The A. mexicana extract promoted the highest germination (76.70%) and suppressed fungal colonization of Fusarium spp. and Alternaria spp. by 60.00% compared to the control. T. harzianum also enhanced germination and partially mitigated fungal load. These findings suggest that biological treatments, particularly botanical extracts, represent a sustainable and effective alternative for improving the physiological and sanitary quality of P. cembroides forest seeds.
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