Broiler litter in substrates for yellow passion fruit seedlings

Abstract

Broiler litter is an abundant residue in southern Brazil, and its use in substrates for passionfruit can lower the cost of production. However, high doses may be harmful to plants. Then, a study was done in order to test doses of broiler litter for yellow passion fruit (Passiflora edulisSims f.flavicarpaDeg.) seedlings growth, and to compare it to mineral-synthetic fertilizer and no fertilizer. To this end, two experiments were performed in a greenhouse. The broiler litter was tested crude and partially composted, mixed to soil and a commercial substrate, in doses from 2.5 to 40%. Output variables were height, collar diameter, number of leaves, dry matter of root and shoot, and the emergence and emergence speed. The addition of broiler litter to the commercial substrate and soil slowed emergency. The growth of shoots increased until 10.86% broiler litter, depending on the trait measured. As conclusions, seedling growth is maximized by adding 10% broiler litter, which is equivalent to mineral fertilization. Partially composting of broiler litter does not allow increasing its dose.