Use of Vermicompost Modulates Physiological and Growth Responses of Paricá Seedlings more than Mineral Fertilization

Abstract

The aim of this study was to evaluate the nutrition, gases exchange and growth of Paricá seedlings (Schizolobium parahyba var. amazonicum) under doses of Vermicompost (VC), combined (or not) with mineral fertilization (MF). The experiment was conducted in a greenhouse, following a randomized block design, with a 5 × 2 factorial arrangement, which consisted of five doses of VC (0, 10, 20, 30 and 40% v/v), with and without the addition of MF. The combination of VC and MF resulted in higher stocks of N, Ca and Mg in aboveground biomass, although this did not translate into higher biomass production and nutrient use efficiency. The increasing doses of VC positively affected the gas exchange variables, except for stomatal conductance. The seedlings growth was also positively affected by the increasing doses of VC. Dosage between 10 and 20% VC were the most suitable for producing Paricá seedlings, once the plants reached a good size and nutritional status for transplanting. Such results highlight the potential of VC usage for Paricá seedlings production, replacing or complementing MF, which certainly results in costs reductions, possibility of organic wastes reuse and a more independence of the farmer during the process of seedling production. Furthermore, the massive adoption of VC in Paricá seedlings’ production might represent benefits beyond the nutrients’ supply, such as the improvement of soil biological quality, which turns this material even more promising, especially for Paricá usage in agroforestry and restoration systems.