Decomposition and nutrient release of leguminous green manure species in the Jaguaribe-Apodi region, Ceará, Brazil

ABSTRACT: The use of leguminous green manure can be an alternative for the region agricultural systems due to its ability to incorporate significant amounts of nutrients into the soil through decomposition and nutrient release from biomass. This study aimed to evaluate the decomposition rates and nutrient release of six leguminous green manure species ( Crotalaria juncea , Canavalia ensiformes , Cajanus cajan , Crotalaria spectabilis , Dolichos lablab and Mucuna deeringiana ) in an area of the Jaguaribe-Apodi agricultural region, Brazil. Experiment was carried out under field conditions in a randomized block design with five replications. Decomposition and nutrient release from leguminous biomass were monitored by sampling at 30, 60, 90, 120, 150 and 180 days after installing litter bags. In general, Crotalaria spectabilis and Canavalia ensiformes showed higher decomposition and nutrient release rates and they are the most promising for the region in the conditions of this study. However, for greater persistence of residues in the soil, Crotalaria juncea is more recommended