Formulación de un Herbicida Ecológico a Base de Theobroma cacao L. e Hidróxido de Potasio

Ariana Sarmiento Cueva; Davis Anthony Bonilla Luzón; Jaime Maza Maza; Hugo Romero Bonilla

doi:10.54753/blc.v16i1.2565

Authors

Ariana Sarmiento Cueva UTMACH https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0539-7783
Davis Technical University of Machala https://orcid.org/0009-0001-4289-2639
Jaime Maza Maza https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4845-5165
Hugo Romero Bonilla Universidad Técnica de Machala: Machala https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7846-0512

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.54753/blc.v16i1.2565

Keywords:

Ecological herbicide, Cacao mucilage, Potassium hydroxide, Theobroma cacao L, Weeds

Abstract

The excessive use of synthetic herbicides, particularly glyphosate, negatively affects human health, biodiversity, and soil quality. In Ecuador, dependence on these products has increased, highlighting the need for sustainable alternatives. This study aimed to formulate an ecological herbicide based on fermented Theobroma cacao L. mucilage combined with potassium hydroxide derived from banana peels. The methodology included: collection and fermentation of cacao mucilage with Saccharomyces cerevisiae; extraction and chemical conversion of KOH from banana peel ash; formulation of treatments with different mucilage to KOH ratios; and field evaluation on three dominant weed species: Digitaria ciliaris (Retz.) Koeler, Centratherum punctatum Cass., y Cuphea strigulosa Kunth. Effectiveness was assessed through visual damage, weed coverage, biomass, and soil properties before and after application. Results showed that fermented mucilage produced high levels of organic acids and potassium capable of inducing phytotoxicity. Treatments T0 (100 % mucilage) and T3 (75 % mucilage + KOH) were the most effective, achieving up to 91 % control of Digitaria ciliaris (Retz.) Koeler, whereas Cuphea strigulosa Kunth was more resistant. Additionally, soil analysis revealed no adverse effects, with some treatments increasing carbon and organic matter content. The study concludes that the ecological herbicide demonstrates selective efficacy and potential agronomic benefits, making it a viable sustainable alternative for weed management and reducing reliance on synthetic herbicides.

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