Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the effect of A. vera leaf extract on germination performance and seedling vigor in C. annuum under controlled laboratory conditions. Theoretical Framework: Plant extracts are recognized as sustainable alternatives to synthetic inputs, acting as natural biostimulants and antifungal agents. Aloe vera contains polysaccharides, phenolics, anthraquinones and glycoproteins capable of modulating germination physiology and early seedling vigor. Method: The experiment followed a completely randomized design with five extract concentrations (0–40%) and four replications. Germination percentage, germination speed index, root length, shoot height and stem diameter were measured. Data were submitted to ANOVA and means compared by the Scott–Knott test (5%). Results and Discussion: No significant effects were detected for most variables. However, intermediate concentrations showed slight stimulation in shoot height and stem diameter, whereas higher concentrations reduced root elongation, indicating a dose-dependent (hormetic) trend. The absence of fungal contamination in treated seeds suggests an antifungal effect of the extract. Research Implications: The findings indicate that Aloe vera extract can be safely incorporated into seed treatment protocols, but concentration thresholds must be optimized to avoid inhibitory responses, especially in root development. Originality/Value: This study provides one of the few systematic evaluations of Aloe vera leaf extract on Capsicum annuum germination, offering new insights into its hormetic behavior, antifungal potential and applicability as a natural biostimulant in sustainable horticulture.
Assunção et al. (Wed,) studied this question.