The experiment was carried out in a randomized block using a factorial design 4 x 2, using polyethylene bags with 50 cm heights and 36 cm diameters in order to evaluate the effects of 1.25, 2.50, 3.75 and 5.00 L of water twice a week in the presence and absence of soil mulch with (Brachiaria decumbens), on the growth of the yellow passion fruit (Passiflora edulis f. flavicarpa Deg) during the first ninety days after transplanting. The diameter of the stem expressed growth of plants better than height, as it presented the same statistical significance in relation to the number of productive branches, floral buttons, healthy new fruits and dry matter of the roots, stems and leaves. The supply of 10 L of water in two weekly applications of 5 L maintained the substrate water content at a level adequate for crop development, however the soil mulch exercised a positive effect only on the dry matter of stems and roots of the plants.
Passiflora edulis Deg.; irrigation; soil mulch
