Characterization of regional substrates for the production of plants in containers

Objective: To evaluate the physical and chemical properties of waste from the oil palm industry (empty fruit bunches and palm kernel shell charcoal), from the forestry industry (Cedrela odorata sawdust and Eucalyptus spp. bark), and from the agroindustry (sugarcane bagasse, cocoa pod husk, and coconut fiber), in order to determine their potential as components of regional substrates. Design/Methodology/Approach: A completely randomized design was used for the experiment. Seven regional substrate treatments with three replicates were used to evaluate the response variables. An analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Tukey's multiple comparison test (p≤0.05) were used to analyze the results in the InfoStat v. 2020 statistical software. Results: Regional substrates had similar characteristics —and even a higher concentration of nutrients— than the commercial substrate, which was mainly based on sphagnum peat moss. Substrate S5 —eucalyptus (Eucalyptus spp.) bark:cocoa pod husk:cedar (Cedrela odorata) sawdust (3:1:1)— had more variables that were statistically similar to the commercial substrate, while S4 —cocoa pod husk:cedar sawdust:palm kernel shell charcoal (3:1.5:0.5)— stood out for its higher concentration of micronutrients. The results identified sustainable and accessible options that meet the recommended criteria for plant production in containers. Study Limitations/Implications: This study only took into account the characterization of regional waste and substrates; consequently, its effects on future plant production should be evaluated. Findings/Conclusions: The substrates were sustainable and affordable and met the recommended criteria for the plant production in containers.