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Use of cocoa mucilage (Theobroma cacao L.) for the control of weeds in african palm (Elaeis guineensis)

Abstract:

The use of cocoa mucilage to control weeds in African palm (Elaeis guineensis) was evaluated, given the need for sustainable alternatives for weed control. As an objective of the study, the effectiveness of different concentrations of mucilage (0 %, 60 %, 80 % and 100 %) on broad-leaf and narrow-leaf weeds was evaluated. This study was developed by directly applying cocoa mucilage to the experimental plots, evaluating different variables such as weed cover, mortality and biomass weight. The results showed significant differences in weed coverage before and after the application of the bioherbicide. The treatment with broad leaves reached a coverage of 62,37 %, while the treatment with narrow leaves had 50 % coverage. Regarding weed mortality, the treatment with 100 % mucilage and narrow leaf achieved a mortality of 99 %, while the treatment with 60 % mucilage and broad leaf had a mortality of 46 %. Biomass weight, the treatment with broad leaves recorded the highest initial weight of 606 g, but the treatment with 100 % mucilage and narrow leaves had the lowest weight of dead biomass, with only 73 g. In conclusion, treatment with 100 % mucilage and narrow leaf showed the best results in controlling weeds in African palm. This study highlights the potential of mucilage as a bioherbicide and its effectiveness in agriculture.