Effect of Different Proportions of Açaí Fiber on the Initial Development of Passion Fruit Seedlings

Introduction: Passion fruit (Passiflora edulis) comes from tropical regions, and Brazil is the world's largest producer of this crop today. However, the increase in the cost of seedling production proves the need for alternatives for production, such as açaí fiber substrate. The objective of the work was to evaluate the development of passion fruit seedlings in different types of treatments with açaí fiber, to determine the best composition of the substrate. The study was conducted at the Center for Agricultural Sciences of the State University of the Tocantina Region of Maranhão, municipality of Imperatriz. The experimental design used was entirely randomized with five treatments T0 (100% soil), T1 (25% açaí fiber + 75% soil), T2 (50% açaí fiber + 50% soil), T3 (75% açaí fiber + 25% soil) and T4 (90% açaí fiber + 10% soil), being used 6 repetitions, totaling thirty experimental units. The experiment was conducted for 2 months. Four evaluations were carried out and the variables analyzed were germination, plant height, stem diameter, number of leaves, dry mass of the aerial part and roots. Although they did not present statistical significance for all variables, T2 and T4 treatments showed the best results. T2 stood out in the height and dry mass of the aerial part, while T4 obtained the highest rates of dry and fresh mass of the roots. These results indicate that the use of açaí fiber is a promising and sustainable alternative in the production of passion fruit seedlings. Objective: The objective of this study is to investigate the effect of different proportions of açaí fiber on the initial development of passion fruit seedlings, in order to determine the best composition of the substrate. Theoretical Framework: In this topic, the main concepts and theories that underlie the research are presented. The types of substrates that can be used in the production of passion fruit seedlings are highlighted, from Nicoloso (2000) and Saidelles (2009) providing a solid basis for understanding the context of the investigation. Method: The methodology adopted for this research comprises the experimental design adopted was the entirely randomized, composed of five treatments T0 (100% soil), T1 (25% açaí fiber + 75% soil), T2 (50% açaí fiber + 50% soil), T3 (75% açaí fiber + 25% soil) and T4 (90% açaí fiber + 10% soil), being used 6 repetitions, totaling thirty experimental units. Data collection was carried out through weekly analyzes. Results and Discussion: The results obtained revealed that the açaí fiber substrate is efficient in the initial development of passion fruit seedlings, pricipalmete in T2 and T4. Research Implications: The practical and theoretical implications of this research are discussed, providing insights into how the results can be applied or influence practices in the field of [insert field of study]. These implications could encompass [list impacted areas or sectors]. Originality/Value: This study contributes to the literature by [highlighting the originality of the research, whether through the innovative approach, new discoveries or practical contributions]. The relevance and value of this research are evidenced by [explain how the results may impact the area of study or professional practice].