Growth and development of Tabebuia rosea (Bertol.) DC. with controlled release fertilizers in the nursery.

Resumen

Objective: To understand the effect of controlled release fertilizers on the growth and development components of Tabebuia rosea (Bertol.) DC.

Design/methodology/approach: In this research, a randomized block design with seven treatments and 50 replicates was used. Three treatments consisted of substrate with different mixtures of controlled release fertilizers (CRFs) at three concentrations each, of 4, 5 and 6 kg m^-3 plus a control (without fertilization).

Results: The use of controlled release fertilizers such as Multicote™ Agri 8 and Basacote® Plus 9M demonstrated greater growth and development in pink trumpet seedlings on the components of plant height, basal stem diameter, aerial biomass, root biomass, among others. Of the seven treatments presented in this study, the concentrations of 5 and 6 kg m^-3 proved to be the best nutritional alternative, which will result in a higher survival rate in the field.

Limitations on study/implications: Due to the loss of undisturbed specimens, it is becoming increasingly difficult to find trees with seed production capabilities.

Findings/conclusions: Multicote™ Agri 8 in concentrations of 5 and 6 kg m^-3 is the best nutritional alternative for optimal growth and development of Tabebuia rosea (Bertol.) DC. It can be considered essential for reforestation in urban and rural areas of the region, and due to its floral beauty, which is part of culture in the state of Tabasco.