Abstract
This paper describes an experiment performed in order to study the possibility of using zeolite in organic olive groves. Soil and leaf analysis was performed and an increase in soil N levels was observed. Furthermore, higher levels of K in the soil and the trees point to the improved nutritional potential of these soils in terms of K, as a result of adding zeolite. The results obtained under experimental conditions can be extrapolated for real plantations in the area and will also lead to significant water savings, greater efficiency, decreased use of fertilizers and less contamination of underground water supplies, which can then be used elsewhere.
Highlights
Zeolites are a group of minerals, highly crystalline hydrated aluminosilicates that, when dehydrated, develop a porous structure with minimum pore diameters of between 3 to 10 Å
It has been verified that, when mixed with nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium compounds, zeolite enhances the action of such compounds as slow release fertilizers, both in horticultural and extensive crops[6,7]
Zeolite acts as a slow release fertilizer, giving the plant access to water and nutrients for longer, which results in a significant saving in water resources and reducing the amount of fertilizer to be applied[8], helping to decrease the amount of water used per crop and the contamination of aquifers resulting from the overuse of fertilizers
Summary
Zeolites are a group of minerals, highly crystalline hydrated aluminosilicates that, when dehydrated, develop a porous structure with minimum pore diameters of between 3 to 10 Å. The application of zeolites to soils increases their E.C, and as a result, it increases nutrient retention capacity. The addition of zeolites usually increases pH levels[1].
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