Phosphorus fertilization on growth and contents of macronutrients in Jatropha curcas seedlings

The addition of phosphorous to the substrate for the production of seedlings promotes faster growth of both root and shoots, increases tolerance to environmental stress and diseases, and even improves the efficiency of nutrient and water use in several plant species. This experiment aimed to study the effect of the addition of simple superphosphate to the substrate on the growth and macronutrient levels in the contents of seedlings of Jatropha curcas. A substrate containing soil and urban-waste compost was modified by the addition of simple superphosphate in 0; 2.5; 5.0; 7.5; 10.0 and 12.5 kg m(-3) amounts. The seedlings were evaluated 30 days after planting. Maximum growth of the Jatropha plants was observed for the simple superphosphate added in estimated amounts in the range of 5 to 8 kg m(-3). The phosphorus fertilization especially favored the growth of leaf-area and roots, and promoted increase in contents of all macronutrient except calcium.