How nutrient rich are decaying cocoa pod husks? The kinetics of nutrient leaching

Abstract Aim Recycling of cocoa pod husks has potential to contribute mineral nutrition cocoa. Yet little is known the nutrient content and release patterns from husks. The potassium (K) rich are usually left in heaps plantations Africa. We aimed understand quantify K other nutrients under varying rainfall regimes assessed effects partial decomposition inundation on leaching rates. Methods incubated chunks assess rates we measured two sets husk chunks: one set was placed tubes that were submitted simulated scheduled events while second continuously inundated beakers. Results Decomposition followed a second-order exponential curve (k: 0.09 day −1 ; ageing constant: 0.43). Nutrient losses recorded within 25 days larger more variable for (33%) than macronutrients released this order: Mg > Ca ≈ P N (less 15%). Potassium mainly driven by frequency ( < 0.05) reinforced intense rainfall, especially at lower frequency. Under water-saturated conditions, 11% leached out 48 h fresh compared with 92% partially decayed Conclusion Some initial required expose leaching. As progresses, abundant be expected frequent and/or events.