Improving onion production in Bom Jesus-PI: A study on the use of decomposed buriti chest

Abstract

The onion is a vegetable of extreme economic importance in Brazil, having originated in Central Asia. However, for the crop to present the best results, it is essential to be grown in soils with medium texture and high organic matter content. After all, soil quality can make all the difference in the success or failure of production. With this objective, a study was conducted to evaluate the response of the onion crop to the use of regional organic matter, specifically the buriti chest, as a cultivation technique to be applied to family farming in the region of Bom Jesus-PI. The experiment was conducted in the experimental area of the Horticulture sector of the Prof.ª Cinobelina Elvas Campus (CPCE), belonging to the Federal University of Piauí (UFPI), located in the municipality of Bom Jesus-PI, from July 14 to December 17, 2019. The randomized block design (DBC) was adopted, with seven treatments (0, 10, 20, 30, 40, 50 and 60 t ha-1 of buriti chest), four replications and ten plants per experimental plot. The following phytotechnical variables were evaluated: plant height and number of leaves per plant; and productive, such as total bulb productivity, commercial bulb productivity, non-commercial bulb productivity, longitudinal and transverse diameters, average bulb mass, dry mass of leaves and bulbs and bulb classification. The use of increasing doses of buriti chest improved the productive attributes of the onion cv. Ibiapaba in soils with sandy texture. The most recommended dose for the first year of cultivation was 60 t ha-1, but for the second year it may be necessary to increase to 80 t ha-1. However, further studies are needed to validate this recommendation and evaluate possible side effects on soil fertility and final product quality. The study reinforces the importance of seeking new cultivation techniques for family farming in the region of Bom Jesus-PI.

DOI:https://doi.org/10.56238/uniknowindevolp-088