Controlled-Release Fertilizer and Container Volume to Produce Inga laurina Seedlings

Abstract

This study evaluated the production of Inga laurina (Sw.) Willd seedlings in 110 and 280 cm3 tube containers and growing doses (0, 3, 6 and 12 kg m-3) of controlled-release fertilizer (CRF) (15-09-12) and their performance at 5 and 12 months after outplanting. The experiment was conducted using a randomized split-plot design, in a 2 x 4 arrangement (tube volumes x CRF doses). Stabilized sewage sludge from urban origin was used as substrate. It was assessed growth and biomass of the seedlings in nursery, as well as survival and growth after outplanting. Containers of 280 cm3 and doses between 6 to 12 kg m-3 produced seedlings in less time, with higher growth and biomass. At 12 months after outplanting, seedlings presented acceptable growth and mortality rate with doses equal or greater than 6 and 3 kg m-3 of CRF, respectively, for the 110 and 280 cm3 tube.