STANDARDIZATION OF GERMINATION TEST AND RESPONSE TO NACL SALT STRESS IN Toona cliliata SEEDS

The objective of this study was to evaluate the germination of Australian cedar seeds ( Toona ciliata M. Roem) in three different substrates and two photoperiods and evaluate the effect of salt stress with sodium chloride (NaCl) on the viability and vigor of seeds, conducting two experiments. The first experiment was conducted in a constant temperature room at 25 C and two light regimes 12h 24h white light; and three substrates: sand, between paper and on paper. Evaluations were performed on the seventhand twenty-first day after sowing. Results were expressed as percentage of Normal Seedlings, Abnormal Seedlings and Dead Seeds, Number of True Leaves, Fresh, Dry Matter, Seedling Length and Root. The second experiment used constant 25 C and photoperiod of 12 hours light. With treatments T1 (0mM: distilled water); 25mMNaCl T2; T3 50mMNaCl; T4 and T5 100mMNaCl 75mMNaCl. We evaluated PCG, G, IVG, CP, CR. The photoperiod of 24h light, does not influence the final seed germination and the use of paper on substrate provided the highest percentage of germinated seeds. As to the effect of salt stress, the concentration of 50mMsalt, caused damage to the development of seedlings.