Cultivation protocol using a coir-based substrate modulates the concentration of bioactive compounds and the antioxidant activity of Passiflora alata Curtis seedlings

ABSTRACT The use of coconut coir dust is a low-cost cultivation practice. Thus, this study aimed to determine the effect proportion on foliar secondary metabolite biosynthesis and growth Passiflora alata Curtis (sweet passion fruit). This species possess pharmaceutical relevance organic-based substrates may promote production bioactive compounds in phytomass. An experiment greenhouse was set up with three proportions mixed commercial substrate for seedlings (CSS) (peat-based) (S1= 1:1:1, CSS: sand: dust; S2= 1.5:1.5:1, S3= 1:1, CSS) seven replicates. After 68 days, parameters were measured (height, leaf area, number leaves, stem diameter, dry matter), harvested leaves used prepare ethanolic extracts. total antioxidant activity phenolics, flavonoids, proanthocyanidins, saponins assessed. Unexpectedly, supply did not favor metabolites, as best results observed plants grown S3. Moreover, S3 efficient optimizing growth, content, capacity P. extracts dispensing supplementation substrate. Therefore, adding CSS recommended enhance metabolites seedlings.