The Impact of Different Growth Media on Cocoa(Theobroma cacao L.) Seedling

Abstract

Suitable growth medium is scarce, which constitutes a major challenge in cocoa seedling breeding across West Africa (e.g. Ghana). Information on efficient growth media would boost sustainable cocoa production. Complete Randomized Block Design using four treatments [i.e., River Sand + Sawdust (T1), River Sand (T2), Clay Soil (T3) and Top Soil-Control (T4)] with three trials was employed. River Sand and Sawdust (2:1) mixture recorded the greatest plant height (i.e., 23.46, 26.51 and 31.56cm) on day 30, 60 and 120, respectively. Significant differences (P<0.05) existed between the former and seedlings bred on Clay Soil. Top soil treated cocoa seedlings followed and River Sand ranked third. Seedlings treated on Clay Soil performed poorly for all the growth parameters. Significant differences (P<0.05) existed between the treatments for plant height and stem girth. River Sand and Sawdust (2:1) mixture could supplement Top Soil (control) in cases where the latter is scarce for healthy seedling production.