Changes in the macronutrient concentration in coffee fruits and leaves during a reproductive cycle

Abstract

Changes in the concentration of macronutrients in the fruits and leaves of coffee trees (Coffea arabica L.) cv.  Catuaí Amarelo and the nutrient accumulations by the fruits sampled in two coffee trees planted in the same hole were evaluated through chemical analysis of samples by 21-day intervals from the beginning of flowering stage to complete fruit maturation. Fruit dry matter was progressively increased until 217 days counted from the beginning of fruit development. The change in the leaf and fruit macronutrient components followed relatively distinct seasonal patterns. The concentrations of N, P and K in the leaves tended to decrease very rapidly through fruit development and ripening with a drop below an adequate level. The levels of leaf Ca and Mg were the lowest just alter flowering, but increased during the fruit growth. Regarding to nutrient removal by the fruits, approximately 80% of N, P, K, Ca and Mg were accumulated in the fruit in intervals of 120 to 150 days counted from the beginning of fruit development.