Influence of N-P-K fertilization at the acclimatization stage on micropropagated seedlings of Tillandsia bulbosa Hook

Abstract

Bromeliads are known worldwide for their ornamental potential. In Brazil, species of the genus Tillandsia occur in the Atlantic rainforest, Amazon rainforest, and rocky fields. This work aimed to evaluate the influence of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium fertilization on micropropagated seedlings of Tillandsia bulbosa, at the acclimatization stage, and their leaf anatomy. The experiment was carried out in a completely randomized design, in a 4x4+1 factorial scheme, using coconut coir: earthworm humus: sand mixture as substrate (2:1:1). Urea, single superphosphate, and potassium chloride were used as nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium sources, respectively, at proportions of 50, 100, 200, and 400% of the dose recommended. The doses were distributed in four applications, testing total application at planting (1); ½ application at planting and ½ at 80 DAP (2); ⅓ application at planting, ⅓ at 50 DAP, and ⅓ at 100 DAP (3); and ¼ application at planting, ¼ at 30 DAP, ¼ at 60 DAP, and ¼ at 120 DAP (4); and a control (without fertilization). Leaves anatomy was analyzed at 180 days after planting. Fertilization did not significantly influence the development of seedlings during acclimatization. The doses of 50, 100, and 200% provided thicker parenchyma of chlorophyll and aquifer and leaf blade. Tillandsia bulbosa can be acclimatized without fertilizer application.