Fruit maturity and storage affected the germination and seedling vigor of bell pepper (Capsicum annuum L.)

Fruit storage is beneficial to growers to avoid the exposure of fruits to adverse weather conditions and infestation by pests and diseases that may affect the seed quality. This study was conducted to evaluate the influence of fruit maturity and fruit storage on the germination and vigor of bell pepper. Fruits of California Wonder cultivar were evaluated. A storage of bell pepper fruits (green mature, half-ripe (green and red) and fully-ripe (red)) at room temperature was conducted for 0, 5, 10 and 25 days. The experiment was arranged in a Completely Randomized Design with four replications. Results showed that fruit weight was higher in green mature bell peppers without storage. However, fruit storage was advantageous due to the increase in total soluble solids and dry matter. Heavier dried seeds were obtained from fruits without storage. Half-ripe with five days of storage and fully-ripe without storage exhibited the highest germination percentage and germination index of bell pepper seeds, which was higher than the standard germination rate. However, a shorter mean germination time was observed in green mature and half-ripe fruits after five days of storage. Longer and vigorous seedlings were produced from half-ripe fruits with 25 days of storage.