Litterfall Dynamics and Nutrient Cycling in an Experimental Plantation of Peach Palm (Bactris gasipaes Kunth)

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate litterfall and nutrient dynamics in an experimental plantation of peach palm (Bactris gasipaes Kunth) in Taubaté, São Paulo, Brazil. Litterfall was collected monthly between March 2010 and May 2011, and the plant material was separated into leaflets and rachises. During the 15-month study period, the plantation produced 9.2 Mg ha −1 of litter (4.8 Mg ha −1 of leaflets and 4.4 Mg ha −1 of rachises). Seasonal variations were observed in litter production and nutrient concentration. Litter deposition was the highest at the end of the dry season and at the beginning of the rainy season, that is, in months with low rainfall and lower minimum temperatures. Macronutrient return to the soil was estimated at 141.5 kg N ha −1 , 24.8 kg P ha −1 , 78.2 kg K ha −1 , 55.1 kg Ca ha −1 , and 37.8 kg Mg ha −1 .