Effect of substrate and vermicompost leachate on the growth of Plukenetia volubilis
Keywords:
bio-conditioning; charcoal; organic matter; Sacha inchi; seeds.Abstract
Plukenetia volubilis is a native species of the Peruvian Amazon known as Sacha inchi. Its seeds contain bioactive compounds, high-quality proteins, and fatty acids, mainly omega-3, which provide health benefits. It was introduced to Cuba for the population due to its nutraceutical potential and is currently being propagated in different parts of the country. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of different organic substrates and bio-conditioning of Sacha inchi seeds with vermicompost leachate on germination and leaf development of this species. Three substrate mixtures were evaluated with different proportions: river sand + leaf litter humus + soil + charcoal; river sand + vermicompost + soil + charcoal; and river sand + organic matter + soil. Subsequently, seed bio-conditioning was evaluated. Germination was 100 % in all substrates, starting between 13 and 15 days. The number of leaves at 30 days ranged from 2,0 to 5,0 per plant, with significant differences only between T3 and T1, reflecting a moderate effect of the substrate. The use of leachate advanced germination by six days and increased the number of leaves per plant, with greater vegetative vigor, which could represent an adaptive advantage under field conditions. The synergy between leachate pretreatment and an organic substrate favored germination and development of the species, laying the groundwork for propagation protocols.
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