Purpose: To analyze the growth and development of Adenanthera pavonina seedlings submitted to substrates containing different proportions of chicken manure.
Theoretical framework: Based on scientific articles found on search engines and in books on seedling production; types, characteristics and functions of substrates, with emphasis on poultry manure; morphological characteristics that characterize the growth and quality of seedlings and; characteristics of Adenanthera pavonina, which was the studied species.
Method: The experiment was carried out in a greenhouse for a period of 90 days, in which the Adenanthera pavonina seedlings were submitted to different proportions between soil and chicken manure, 100% soil, 75% soil + 25% chicken manure, 50% soil + 50% chicken manure, 25% soil + 75% chicken manure, 100% chicken manure. During 90 days of growth, growth in height and diameter and; at the end of 90 days, the dry mass of the aerial part and the root part of the seedlings was obtained.
Results and conclusion: The proportion of 25% chicken manure + 75% soil is the most suitable for the growth and dry mass production of Adenanthera pavonina seedlings, allowing to obtain quality seedlings for planting. While proportions such as the one with 100% bird manure make germination of seeds of this species unfeasible.
Research implications: These results provide a correct and ideal recommendation for the studied species, because it proves that the amount of chicken manure in the substrate composition interferes in order to improve or reduce the growth capacity of the seedlings. Proving, therefore, that there is an ideal amount to be used and that this should be the focus of attention for the nurseryman who wants to produce quality seedlings of this species.
Originality/value: Use of organic waste for the seedlings production, which is an environmentally correct destination.