High-density planting effects on maxixe production

Resumo

Maxixe is a vegetable with high nutritional value, yet there is limited information on crop management practices, particularly regarding row and plant spacing. This study aimed to evaluate maxixe production under high planting densities in two locations, Montes Claros and Mocambinho, Minas Gerais State, Brazil. The experiment was designed as a 2 x 2 x 4 factorial scheme, with two locations, four plant numbers per hole, and four hole densities, using the cultivar Maxixe do Norte. A randomized block design with four replications was employed. The variables analyzed included the number of fruits per plant and per hectare, pericarp thickness, fresh and dry fruit mass, and overall productivity. Data were subjected to multiple regression analysis, and curve comparisons were made using the model identity test. No significant difference was observed in fruit yield between the two locations; the highest yield recorded was 56,489.63 kg ha^-1 at the highest planting densities. Increased planting density resulted in higher yields in weight and number of fruits per area, but fewer fruits per plant and reduced fresh and dry fruit mass at higher densities. Therefore, considering production per area and plant, an intermediate planting density is most appropriate, as it enhances yield without compromising fruit quality. In short, the recommended density for optimal fruit production is 33,000 holes per hectare, with three plants per hole.