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Experiences of Compost Use in Agriculture and in Land Reclamation Projects

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The Science of Composting

Abstract

Numerous agronomic experiments were set up in fruit and vine growing, using both MSW compost (municipal solid waste not source separated) and BS compost (barks and sewage sludges). Both materials were compared with cattle manure in the field; in planting hole with peat; in mulches with usual under-plant soil management techniques. Compost affected soil porosity, softness, waterholding capacity, and availability of nutritive elements in a positive way. Compost generally improved plants themselves, positively influenced the growth of young apple-trees and vine cuttings, prevented weed development and supported an earlier production in young plants. In some trials with MSW compost, increased heavy metal content in the soil was observed, but that did not happen with BS compost.

The BS compost proved a valid alternative to the soil and organic soil conditioners on the market in the recovery of degraded areas too. In the experiments, compost secured a rapid emergence and regular growth of herbaceous species covering degraded areas. Establishment of a grass sward allowed soil consolidation, reducing soil erosion. The thoroughly environmental safety of tested compost was proved: leaching water and soil tests showed no sign of pollution or eutrophication.

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Marco de Bertoldi Paolo Sequi Bert Lemmes Tiziano Papi

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© 1996 Springer Science+Business Media Dordrecht

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Pinamonti, F., Zorzi, G. (1996). Experiences of Compost Use in Agriculture and in Land Reclamation Projects. In: de Bertoldi, M., Sequi, P., Lemmes, B., Papi, T. (eds) The Science of Composting. Springer, Dordrecht. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-94-009-1569-5_49

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-94-009-1569-5_49

  • Publisher Name: Springer, Dordrecht

  • Print ISBN: 978-94-010-7201-4

  • Online ISBN: 978-94-009-1569-5

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