Cumulative effects of sludge compost on crop yields and soil properties

Abstract

Onion (Allium cepa cv. Spanish Sweet Utah), lettuce (Lactuca sativa cv. Black Seeded Simpson), snapdragon (Antirrhinum majus cv. Sonnet Yellow), and turfgrass (Festuca arundinacea cv. Marathon) were grown twice annually (spring and fall) on a San Emigdio sandy loam (coarse‐loamy, mixed calcareous thermic, Typic Xerorthents) soil for two years that was treated with a cumulative total of 0, 37, and 74 MT/ha of sewage sludge compost from San Diego. The soil received two compost treatments each year and crops were planted within a week of compost incorporation. Crop growth was monitored and the results of the fourth or final planting are described here. Seedlings of onion, snapdragon and lettuce transplanted to compost treated plots displayed more vigorous establishment than those in the control plots. Compost treatments produced higher yields of onion, turf and lettuce. Snapdragon yield was not affected by compost treatment. Soil analysis of compost treated plots revealed lowered pH and increased levels of organic matter, primary nutrients, soluble salts and heavy metals. A concurrent greenhouse study demonstrated that the presence of chipped Eucalyptus tree trimmings (60% by volume) in the sewage sludge compost did not inhibit the growth of the test crops.