ISHS Acta Horticulturae 659: VII International Symposium on Protected Cultivation in Mild Winter Climates: Production, Pest Management and Global Competition
EVALUATION OF COMPOST AS A VIABLE MEDIUM AMENDMENT FOR CONTAINERIZED PERENNIAL PRODUCTION |
| Authors: | S.B. Wilson, L.K. Mecca |
| Keywords: | biosolids, ornamentals, peat |
| Abstract:
The physical and chemical characteristics of peat make it an excellent component of potting media for a variety of ornamental plants. In recent years, environmental concerns and the cost of peat have escalated. In addition, many states have mandated laws to reduce waste inputs, particularly organic wastes, of municipal landfills. To achieve this, efforts have primarily focused on recycling and use of commercial compost produced from yard trimmings and organic wastes including treated sewage sludge (biosolids). Growth of 24 perennials was evaluated using a commercially available peat-based soilless medium amended with 25%, 50%, or 75% organic compost generated from biosolids and yard trimmings. Use of 100% compost in the medium increased plant growth of 11 species, reduced plant growth of 6 species, and did not affect plant growth of the remaining 6 species tested as compared to the peat-based commercial control mix. Use of 50% compost in the medium increased plant growth of 8 species, reduced plant growth of 2 species, and did not affect plant growth of the remaining 14 species tested as compared to the peat-based commercial control mix. Regardless of the plant species tested, compost amendments did not affect flowering or visual quality, and plants were still considered marketable. Results suggest that compost can be a viable alternative to peat as a substrate for containerized perennial production. | |
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