Effect of non-conventional organic fertilizer (horn and hoof meal) on the development of cacao (Theobroma cacao L.)

Summary

This field trial, conducted at the Tropical Crops Institute in San Martín, Peru (2018–2020), evaluated horn and hoof meal (HHM) as a slow-release organic nitrogen source for mature cacao trees under a completely randomised design. Findings suggest HHM performed comparably to urea for leaf area development, while showing superior effects on SPAD chlorophyll content and lateral root dry biomass at certain doses. The study contributes evidence for the potential of non-conventional organic fertilisers to support cacao nutrition, particularly in Amazonian smallholder contexts where sustainable input use is of growing importance.

UK applicability

Cacao (Theobroma cacao) is not grown commercially in the UK, so direct agronomic applicability is limited. However, findings on horn and hoof meal as a slow-release organic nitrogen source may hold broader relevance for UK horticulture and organic systems where similar animal-derived fertilisers are permitted under organic certification standards.

Key measures

Leaf area (cm²); SPAD chlorophyll index; dry biomass of lateral roots (g); HHM dose rates (g tree⁻¹): 83.3, 166.6, 249.9, 332.5 g tree⁻¹

Outcomes reported

The study measured the effect of varying doses of horn and hoof meal (HHM) on leaf area, SPAD chlorophyll content, and dry biomass of lateral roots in seven-year-old cacao hybrid trees. Results were compared against a urea control to assess whether this non-conventional organic fertiliser could serve as a viable nitrogen source for cacao production.

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