Biowaste Digestates: Influence of Pelletization on Nutrient Release and Early Plant Development of Oats
2018
Ross, Christina-Luise | Mundschenk, Eva | Wilken, Verena | Sensel-Gunke, Karen | Ellmer, Frank
PURPOSE: Fermentation and composting of biowaste has become a preferred method for municipalities to recycle organic byproducts and their valuable nutrient content. Pelletization or agglomeration of the resulting digestates may improve their transportability and storability. The aim of this study was to determine the nutrient content and nutrient release from processed biowaste digestates and the immediate as well as the longer-term effect of their application on the early root and shoot development of oat (Avena sativa L.). METHODS: Rhizoboxes were used in which rooting compartment and soil are separated by nylon gauze, which allows nutrients and water to pass through, but denies direct contact between roots and soil or digestate products. The obtained root images were analyzed with the WinRhizo Software and chemical properties of the soil were determined at three dates over a period of 28 weeks. RESULTS: Pelletization and agglomeration of digestates led to an increased immobilization of nutrients and organic matter contained in the digestate. The treated products remained in the soil rather unchanged over many months. A significant influence of the biowaste digestates on plant development was observed only during the first weeks after the application. The application of the digestate products did lead to an increase of total carbon and especially hot water-soluble carbon content in the soil. CONCLUSIONS: The application of biowaste digestates seems therefore well suited for the improvement of humus content in soils. The fertilizing value of processed digestates, however, must be considered as very limited, regardless of their actual nutrient content.
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