Legumes, when associated with coffee crop and used as green manure can contribute with nitrogen and protect the soil by addition of organic matter. The effect of the use legume species in the coffee production system of family farms, was evaluated in order to promote the implantation and maintenance of coffee plantations. The experiment was carried out from November 2000 to April 2003. The experimental delineation was by randomized blocks in subdivided plots, utilizing the legumes Stizolobium atterrimum, Cajanus cajan, Canavalia endiformis, Flemingia congesta, and the control (without legumes) in plots, 0 and 22 g of N dosage in each hole in the subplots. The Flemingia congesta and the Stizolobium atterrimum were the species that most influenced the productivity of the coffee plants, independently of the nitrogen fertilization. In relation to the control; this productivity increased 109% greater when Flemingia congesta was used and 52% for Stizolobium atterrimum. The Flemingia congesta provided the best weed control, given the volume of matter produced, providing of two cuttings during a twelve months period. These results showed the potential of this legume species in the formation of new coffee crops in Acre State. Canavalia endiformis legume negatively influenced height, crown diameter and growth of the coffee plant contradicting the practice of using in the coffee crops in Acre and in other areas.
Amazon; Coffea arabica; coffee; leguminosae; consortium