Implementation of pre-harvest techniques in emerging agroforestry systems to increase the yield of cocoa tree (Theobroma cacao L.)

Mendoza-Meneses, C. J.; Pérez, Ana Angélica Feregrino; Guevara-González, Ramón Gerardo; García-Trejo, J.F.

doi:10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e14542

Cited by 2 publications

(1 citation statement)

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“…One option is the implementation of agroforestry systems, which contribute to diversification and environmentally friendly production in the long term, guaranteeing food security [15]. These systems associate multipurpose forest species with crops of agricultural interest [16]. They improve soil health by reducing the infiltration rate by 75% and runoff by 35%, decreasing erosion by 50%, increasing soil organic carbon by 21%, enhancing the storage of organic N by 13%, available nitrogen (N) by 46%, and 11% of phosphorus (P), and increasing soil pH by 2% [9].…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Agroforestry Systems of Cocoa (Theobroma cacao L.) in the Ecuadorian Amazon

Tinoco-Jaramillo,

Vargas-Tierras,

Habibi

et al. 2024

Forests

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Agroforestry systems in the Ecuadorian Amazon play a vital role in environmental conservation and the promotion of sustainable agriculture. Therefore, it is crucial to demonstrate the benefits of the associated species within these production systems. This study aimed to assess the impact of agroforestry systems on cocoa yield, carbon sequestration, earthworm presence, and the nutritional contribution of companion species linked to cocoa (Theobroma cacao L.) cultivation under agroforestry systems. The research was conducted at INIAP’s Central Experimental Station of the Amazon using a randomized complete block design with three replications. The agroforestry arrangements were: (1) monoculture; (2) forest (Cedrelinga cateniformis Ducke); (3) fruit forest (Bactris gasipaes Kunth); (4) service (Erythrina poeppigiana (Walp.) O.F.Cook); and (5) forest + service (E. poeppigiana + C. cateniformis). The results indicated that agroforestry systems showed better results than the monoculture in terms of yield (532.0 kg ha−1 compared to 435.4 kg ha−1) and total stored carbon (33.0–42.0 t ha−1 compared to 39.6 t ha−1). Additionally, agroforestry systems provided higher levels of Mg, B, and Ca, contributing to both crop yield and the presence of earthworms. These findings suggest a positive influence of companion species, improving soil nutrition through biomass incorporation and promoting environmental benefits (carbon sequestration). Therefore, agroforestry systems will support sustainable cocoa production in the Ecuadorian Amazon.

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Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%