Controlled-Release Fertilizer on Growth of Melanoxylon brauna Schott Seedlings

Abstract

Melanoxylon brauna is a tree species native to the Atlantic Forest of high ecological and economic value. The objective of this study was to evaluate the growth and nutritional status of seedlings of two Melanoxylon brauna cultivars grown in substrate with different controlled-release fertilizer doses (CRF). The experiment was arranged in a randomized block 4 × 2 factorial design, with four CRF doses (0, 2, 4, and 8 kg m-3) and two seed origins (Viçosa-MG and Linhares-ES), with four replicates and 126 seedlings per plot. At 60, 90, and 120 days after emergence, seedlings were collected to measure variables related to emergence, growth, and nutrition. The greatest growth and best nutritional status were found for seedlings originated from seeds collected in Linhares at CRF dose of 8 kg m-3. On the other hand, seedlings originated from seeds collected in Viçosa showed low emergence and high plant mortality.