Sustainable Application of Bioles to Improve Agronomic Performance, Productivity, and Soil Health in Cacao (Theobroma cacao L.) Propagated Sexually and Asexually

Introduction: The research was conducted at the experimental farm “La Represa” of the Technical State University of Quevedo with the aim of evaluating the sustainable application of bioles as a strategy to improve agronomic performance, productivity, and soil health in cacao (Theobroma cacao L.) propagated sexually and asexually. The study addressed the need for sustainable alternatives to chemical fertilizers and for reducing the accumulation of heavy metals in agricultural systems. Methods: A randomized complete block design with split plots was implemented, comprising 21 treatments (seven bioles and one control) with three replications. Physiological, phenological, sanitary, productive, and soil variables were evaluated. Data were analyzed using Tukey’s test (p ≤ 0.05). Results: Bioles produced significant differences in most variables. Treatment T14 (potassium-based biol in grafted cacao) achieved the highest yield with 2790.67 kg/ha/year and 30.17 healthy pods per plant. For vegetative traits, T15 recorded the largest stem diameter (12.05 cm) and vigor, while T12 notably reduced the incidence of witch’s broom (Moniliophthora perniciosa). Soil analyses confirmed increases in macro- and micronutrients, as well as marked reductions in cadmium and lead concentrations. Conclusions: The sustainable application of bioles improved agronomic performance, enhanced productivity, and strengthened soil health in cacao propagated both sexually and asexually. Among the treatments, potassium-based biol proved to be the most effective, establishing itself as a viable agroecological alternative for sustainable cacao production systems in Ecuador.