The effect of nutrient supply on the caffeine content of coffee (Coffea arabica L.) leaves was investigated. Seeds were germinated in nutrient-agar media lacking N, P, K, Ca, Mg, S, Zn, B or Mo. The control treatment contained all essential nutrients. The caffeine concentration was determined seven months after seed sowing when the seedlings have 3 to 4 pair of leaves. The omission of K induced the highest caffeine content in the leaves (24.5 g.kg-1). Caffeine in the control treatment was 21.9 g.kg -1. Absence of P induced the lowest content, 17.5 g.kg-1.
caffeine; Coffea arabica L.; mineral nutrition
