Abstract
ABSTRACT The cultivation of tuberous-root species such as Moringa oleifera Lam. (moringa) requires well-dimensioned containers and the use of appropriate substrates, since seedlings will be removed from the container before their planting. Sugarcane bagasse, urban waste compost (compost), and vermicompost are promising wastes for substrate composition. The present study aims to assess the quality of moringa grown in substrate produced from sugarcane bagasse associated with compost or vermicompost in different-volume tubes. The study followed a randomized blocks design, at 2x7 factorial arrangement, namely: tubes’ volumes (50 and 240 mL) x seven substrates (commercial substrate; sugarcane bagasse associated with urban waste compost at three different ratios (1:3; 1:1 and 3:1) and sugarcane bagasse associated with vermicompost at ratios 1:3; 1:1 and 3:1). In conclusion, the 240 mL container was the most appropriate one for moringa seedlings’ production. Substrates presenting higher organic compost ratios led to greater shoot and tuberous root growth and to greater nitrogen-use accumulation and efficiency, which was equivalent to that of the commercial substrate. Higher sugarcane bagasse rates in substrate composition made it easier to remove the seedlings from the tubes and led to better physical quality of the clod after seedling removal from the tubes.
Highlights
Substrate formulation in seedlings production must ensure their physical and chemical quality
The present study aims to assess the quality of moringa grown in substrate produced from sugarcane bagasse associated with compost or vermicompost in different-volume tubes
The study followed a randomized blocks design, at 2x7 factorial arrangement, namely: tubes’ volumes (50 and 240 mL) x seven substrates (commercial substrate; sugarcane bagasse associated with urban waste compost at three different ratios (1:3; 1:1 and 3:1) and sugarcane bagasse associated with vermicompost at ratios 1:3; 1:1 and 3:1)
Summary
Substrate formulation in seedlings production must ensure their physical and chemical quality. Besides providing the necessary nutrients for seedlings’ development, substrate must be wellaggregated by the root at the time to remove the seedling from the container, before its planting to protect it from impacts or from drying. Moringa leaves can be offered in the diet of milk cattle as protein supplementation, mainly during drought periods throughout the year, to replace part of the sugarcane (Lisita et al, 2018). Cultivation in arid and semiarid regions is recommended, since moringa’s tuberous roots are highly capable of absorbing and accumulating groundwater and underground mineral salts. This process allows plants to remain green all year long and survive in times of drought (Ndubuaku et al, 2014)
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