Vermicompost from municipal sewage sludge affects growth and mineral nutrition of winter rye (Secale cereale) plants |
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Authors: | Andis Karlsons Anita Osvalde Una Andersone-Ozola |
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Institution: | 1. Laboratory of Plant Mineral Nutrition, Institute of Biology, University of Latvia, Salaspils, Latvia;2. Department of Plant Physiology, Faculty of Biology, University of Latvia, Riga, Latvia |
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Abstract: | The aim of the study was to investigate sewage sludge vermicompost application effects on growth and mineral nutrition of winter rye (Secale cereale L.) plants as compared to two initial levels of mineral nutrient availability, pure sand and sand enriched with inorganic nutrients at the optimal level. Addition of sewage sludge vermicompost significantly inhibited rye seed germination at 20 to 50% sand substitution independently on mineral nutrient supplement. Growth inhibition was evident at early stages of plant development. However, at the later stages, sewage sludge vermicompost acted both as mineral fertilizer and plant growth-promoting agent. Significant stimulation of mineral uptake was seen only at high rates of vermicompost substitution (40 and 50%) already causing decrease in shoot dry matter accumulation. Vermicompost substitution resulted in a significant increase of leaf chlorophyll content. Beneficial effect of sewage sludge vermicompost in conditions of optimal mineral supply can result mainly from plant growth-promoting activity. |
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Keywords: | Chlorophyll mineral nutrition plant growth sewage sludge vermicompost winter rye |
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