The objective of this work was to evaluate the feasibility of using pressed blocks as containers for the production of Inga marginata, Jacaranda puberula and Zeyheria tuberculosa seedlings. The pressed block system (440 cm³) was compared to plastic bags (330 cm³) and circular section tubes (280 cm³). The substrate used was a mixture of organic matter, ground charcoal and clayish soil (6:2:2). After pressing, the size of the blocks was 60 x 40 x 12 cm (length, width and height). Height and diameter of the seedlings were measured monthly, starting at 60 to 150 days after transplantation. The next step was to determine the dry matter weight of the aerial part and root system. To evaluate the behavior of the seedlings produced in the various treatments under field conditions, the survival rate at two months from planting was measured. The seedlings produced by the pressed block system showed a growth higher than or similar to those produced in plastic bags or tubes. Under field conditions, no statistical differences were observed for survival rate and growth of the seedlings from the pressed blocks, plastic bags and tubes. The pressed block system was found to be technically feasible for the production of seedlings of the forest trees species studied.
Seedling quality; containers; reforestation
