Effect of Various Compost Doses on the Soil Infiltration Capacity

Abstract

In the years 2008–2012, the infiltration capacity was monitored in the different sites, viz. on the arable land and permanent grassland. In the permanent grassland site the soil was characterised as Leptic Cambisol, loamy sand with the depth of the top layer 0.20 m while on the arable land, it was classified as Eutric Cambisol, sandy loam with the maximum depth of the topsoil humus horizon 0. 40 m. Experimental variants with different doses of incorporated compost were as follows: Variant 1 –without compost incorporation, Variant 2 – compost incorporated in the dose of 80 t.ha−1, Variant 3 – compost incorporated in the dose of 150 t.ha−1. It was found out within the study period that the application of the higher compost doses showed a positive effect on infiltration rate in both localities. In Variant 3, the highest values of the water infiltration were recorded. It can be concluded that the highest dose of compost (150 t.ha−1) improved and accelerated both the infiltration and water holding capacity of soil for a longer period. With the exception of the year 2009, increased values of water infiltration were recorded on experimental plots with arable land than with permanent grassland. It was found also that after five years have not been marked differences between variants. It follows that the regular supply of organic matter is necessary, preferably after three years.