Multivariate analysis in the evaluation of sustrate quality and containers in the production of Arabica coffee seedlings

Coffee growing is recognized as an activity of great economic and social importance for Brazil. Obtaining good quality coffee seedlings is a major factor in the implantation of a productive and lasting crop. In view of the aforementioned, the objective of this study was to evaluate the quality of Arabica coffee seedlings produced with different substrates in different containers with multivariate analysis techniques. The experimental design used was in randomized blocks, in a 3 x 4 subdivided plot scheme, with 3 replications. The plot levels were: Tube of 120 cm³, Tube of 280 cm³ and Polyethylene bag with volume of 615 cm³. In the subplots the different levels of substrate were randomized: Conventional (S1), leguminous compound (S2), composed of grass + cured bovine manure (S3) and Vermicompost (S4). Treatments 10; 1; 4; 7 evaluated presented potential for diffusion of technology in the process of seedling formation. Key words: Coffea arabica, composting, agroecology.