Producción de plántulas de café (Coffea arabica) a través de sistemas alternativos de producción con base a contenedores y sustratos

Abstract

Abstract: The study evaluates three alternatives for producing coffee seedlings (Coffea arabica) by comparing different containers and substrates: bag-substrate, tube-substrate, and pallets (biodegradable mesh-peat). Advantages were identified especially through the tube and pallet systems in aspects such as root growth and leaf development. The results highlight that producing coffee seedlings in tubes optimizes root length and volume; while production on pallets promotes greater leaf growth and a high number of rootlets or terminals. Furthermore, the study promotes the use of biodegradable materials instead of polyethylene bags, contributing to environmental sustainability. These practices provide alternatives to improve seedling quality and minimize ecological impacts, providing a solid foundation for future strategies in sustainable coffee production. The study concludes that the choice of system must be adapted to the conditions of each product or nursery grower, balancing productivity, environmental sustainability, and the ability to adapt technologically.