Source Of Plant Nutrients Research Articles

Impact of organic liquid fertilizers on growth and yield performance of Green Bean (<em>Phaseolus vulgaris</em> L.) in non-circulating hydroponic system

Non-circulating hydroponic systems are a type of soilless production system that has been found to be extremely productive, low-cost, water, land efficient, and well-suited to avoid fertilizer leaching and groundwater contamination. The experiment was conducted to study the effect of liquid organic nutrient solutions on Green Bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) cultivation in non-circulating hydroponic system. The experiment was laid out in a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with seven treatments having fifteen replicates. The treatments were recommended inorganic fertilizer application (T1), ½ doses of Albert’s solution with 0.5% vermiwash (T2), 1% vermiwash (T3), 1.5% vermiwash (T4), 0.5% vegetable waste solution (T5), 1% vegetable waste solution (T6), 1.5% vegetable waste solution (T7) was used as media. The results revealed that plant height, number of leaves and branches per plant, leaf area, dry weight of leaves and length of pods were significantly (P<0.05) varied at 6th week after planting and it was high in T5. However, number of pods per plant, girth of pods, fresh and dry weight of pods and yield were high in T2 at 3rd picking while yield at 1st and 2nd picking were high in T5. This result suggests that ½ doses of Albert’s solution with 0.5% vegetable waste solution (T5) and ½ doses of Albert’s solution with 0.5% vermiwash (T2) would be the potential source of plant nutrients for sustainable crop production of bean in Non-circulating Hydroponic system.

Chitosan and cyanobacterial biomass accounting physiological and biochemical development of winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) under nutrient stress conditions

AbstractIn the spirit of getting back to nature and using science to increase crop productivity without posing any threat to the environment, researchers are paying attention to making natural products alternative sources of nutrients for plants at affordable prices. On top of this, chitosan and cyanobacteria have become popular in agriculture as metabolic enhancers, biofertilizers, and antimicrobial properties. Cyanobacteria are known to possess biostimulating properties while chitosan is well known for its inherent biological properties. With the aim of minimizing the application of nitrogen, this experiment was conducted for the first time to check if the application of chitosan, microalgae, or both with 50% nitrogen can balance the nutrient requirement for different physiological and biochemical development as effectively as a 100% nitrogen dose. The data were recorded only for the early vegetative stages, as the seeds were non‐vernalized. The basic parameters recorded were hexose content, chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, total phenol content, and relative water content (RWC). In most of the parameters, comparable results were found between the control (with a 100% nitrogen recommended dose) and other treatments (where either microalga, chitosan, or both were added), whereas it was clearly shown that 50% of recommended nitrogen doses reduce the hexose, chlorophyll, and RWCs. Thus, the treatments were effective in supplementing the developmental requirements. Therefore, the combined use of chitosan and cyanobacteria on crops significantly lowers nitrogen fertilization, increases photosynthesis, enhances resistance to water stress, and enhances antioxidant activity in modern agriculture.

Efficacy of nanomaterials for sustainable crop productivity of Capsicum (Capsicum annuum L.) var. Rani under naturally ventilated polyhouse

Nanomaterials, as a source of plant nutrients, play a significant role in cellular metabolism and nutrients uptake by plants, so they have the potential to improve the growth and productivity of Capsicum. A replicated field trial was carried out in 3 x 3 factors Randomized Block Design (RBD) with two factors viz., micronutrients (Cu, B and Mn) and nanomaterials (nano-Fe, nano-Zn and nano-Mg) applied at the rate of 1000 ppm to explore efficacy of nanomaterials and micronutrient for enhancing productivity of Capsicum (Capsicum annuum L.) var. Rani. The layout of experimental area was designed to accommodate 9 treatments (3 x 3) and a control (without treating with micronutrients and nanomaterials). Inside the naturally ventilated polyhouse, the raised beds (height-30 cm, length-50 m, width-90 cm and bed spacing-60 cm) were prepared for the transplanting capsicum seedlings. Application of nano-Zn and/or nano-Fe @ 1000 ppm in combination with borax and/or CuSO4 @ 1000 ppm was significant (p<0.05) for improving various plant growth and productivity parameters of Capsicum. The combined application of nano-Zn with borax or CuSO4 and nano-Fe with borax or CuSO4 (@ 1000 ppm each) was the effective approach for improvement in plant height, number of leaves, number of flowers, number of fruits, yield plant-1 and estimated yield hectare-1. The experimental findings of the present study confirm the necessities of nanomaterials as a nutrient source for enhancing capsicum's productivity to achieve food and nutritional security and promote sustainable agriculture, inclusive and sustainable economic growth of the farming community.

Role of Biofertilizers in Chickpea: A Review

Compared to when both rhizobium and the bacteria that solubilize phosphate are inoculated separately, the interaction effect between the two inoculations gradually increases the growth parameters and yield production. Rhizobium and phosphate solubilizing bacteria (PSB) had shown advantage in enhancing chickpea productivity, cost effective, ecofriendly and renewable sources of plant nutrients. Biofertilizers have the ability to improve the growth and nodulation of chickpea enables it to withstand the periods of drought. Utilising Rhizobium's symbiotic properties to increase the nitrogen supply to agricultural plants.

Microbial phytoremediation of chromium-contaminated soil with biogas slurry for enhancing the performance of Vigna radiata L.

Chromium (Cr) is a toxic heavy metal and severely reduces plant growth. It commonly exists in two forms, i.e., Cr+3 and Cr+6. Due to the high solubility and oxidizing potential, Cr+6 is more dangerous and can be converted into a less toxic form of Cr+3 by different physicochemical and biological techniques. Nitrogen-fixing rhizobia promote the growth of leguminous plants through various direct and indirect mechanisms, and their efficiency can be enhanced by integrating them with various organic amendments. Biogas slurry (BGS) improves the physical properties of soil and serves as an organic source of nutrients for plants and microbes. Rhizobia can convert the metal into a less toxic state, whereas BGS can bind it and make it unavailable for plants. Therefore, the current experiment evaluated the effect of rhizobia and BGS on the growth and yield of mung bean in Cr-contaminated soil. It was observed that individual and combined application of rhizobia and BGS ameliorated the Cr-induced adverse effects on crop growth and yield attributes. Combined application yielded more significant results than their sole application and control under Cr stress. Moreover, a significant decline in Cr uptake by the plant was observed due to the integrated application of rhizobia and BGS compared to the control. The collaborative effect of plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) and BGS can be suitable for improving mung bean growth under Cr-contaminated sites.

The Effect of Vegetable Waste Compost on The Growth of Robusta Coffee Seeds (Coffea canephora)

Vegetable compost is an organic fertilizer derived from vegetable waste which can be used as a source of nutrients for plants. This study aims to determine the effect of vegetable waste compost on the growth of robusta coffee seedlings. This study used a non-factorial completely randomized design with 6 treatments and 4 replications to obtain 24 experimental units. The treatment given was a dose of vegetable waste compost consisting of 6 levels, namely: K0 = without adding vegetable waste compost K1 = 100 gram dose of vegetable waste compost, K2 = 200 gram dose of vegetable waste compost, K3 = 300 gram dose of vegetable waste compost, K4 = 400 gram dose of vegetable waste compost, K5 = 500 gram dose of vegetable waste compost. The results showed that the application of vegetable waste compost with different doses had a very significant effect on the parameters of seedling height, number of leaves and stem diameter of robusta coffee plant seedlings. The best treatment was obtained in the K5 treatment, namely 50 grams/plant of vegetable waste compost.

In-situ Rice Residue Management Practices and Its Impact on Climate, Soil Fertility and Crop Productivity: A Review

Around two-thirds of all food contributes in India is produced in the Indo-Gangetic Plains (IGP), where rice and wheat are the two main crops. In India, rice is grown on the largest percentage of land (32%) followed by wheat (23%). Reusing rice residues has an impact on the soil's characteristics and crop yield. Rice residues are significant natural resources. With a total yield of 10 to 12 t/ha, a rice-wheat sequence depletes the soil of more than 300 kg N, 30 kg P, and 300 kg K per ha. Residue burning results in nutrient losses of 100% C, 90% N, 60% S, and 25% each of P and K. Air pollution has a negative impact on health, including respiratory conditions, eye and skin irritation, and other conditions. An analysis has been done based on the stated research findings from various researchers. It is necessary to study and update the technology in order to prevent residues from burning in the rice and wheat cropping system. A good alternative for their management is to in-situ incorporate rice wastes with microbial consortia in wheat crops. Increased yield, water productivity, and profitability can be achieved by incorporating microbial consortia, while Phaleris minor weed is reduced, further enhancements to soil quality. Because rice residues are a substantial source of plant nutrients, applying them continuously will improve fertiliser management and reduce air pollution.

Bacillus Composted Paddy Husk as a Plant Nutrient Source to Promote Vegetative Growth and Nutrient Uptake in Maize

Paddy husk (PH) is a waste generated from rice production that can be composted into organic fertiliser. Ligninolytic active Bacillus spp. from termite gut were added during the composting process to enhance the agronomic properties of compost produced from PH. This pot study was conducted using maize (Thai Super Sweet hybrid F1) as a test crop to determine the effects of using Bacillus composted PH in supplementing essential nutrients when used in tropical agricultural soil. A total of 144 planting pots, consisting of 12 treatments, were arranged in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three blocks, three replications and four sub-samples per replication. Maize growth namely plant height and leave number were recorded from 14 until 48 days after planting. Maize plants were harvested at 48 days after planting (tasseling stage) and total plant dry weights were recorded. Each plant part was ground and analysed for total N, P, K, Mg and Ca. Soil samples from the pots were sampled and analysed for TOC, pH, EC, total N, total P, available P, K, Mg and Ca. The results at 48 days after planting showed that Bacillus composted PH contributed to an increased by 24.29 to 31.67% in plant height, 53.84 to 61.61% in total plant dry weight and 9.09 to 16.67% in leaf number when compared to plants supplied with standard fertiliser. The use of Bacillus composted PH also improved soil pH, increased soil total N, total P, exchangeable K, Ca, and Mg. Maize treated with Bacillus composted PH showed higher nutrient uptake by 42.79 to 67.89% N, 30.05 to 56.25% P, 61.39 to 70.34% K, 47.39 to 69.94% Ca, and 76.62 to 83.74% Mg when compared to maize treated with standard fertiliser. This study suggests that Bacillus composted PH can promote vegetative growth in maize by acting as soil amendment and providing sufficient nutrients to the plant. Therefore, Bacillus composted PH has great potentials in promoting a more environmentally friendly and sustainable cropping practices which can benefit the environment and society.

Integrated nutrient management for improving crop yields, soil properties, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions

Recently, most agrarian countries have witnessed either declining or stagnant crop yields. Inadequate soil organic matter (SOM) due to the poor physical, chemical, and biological properties of the soil leads to an overall decline in the productivity of farmlands. Therefore, the adoption of integrated nutrient management (INM) practices is vital to revive sustainable soil health without compromising yield potential. Integrated nutrient management is a modified nutrient management technique with multifarious benefits, wherein a combination of all possible sources of plant nutrients is used in a crop nutrition package. Several studies conducted in various parts of the world have demonstrated the benefits of INM in terms of steep gain in soil health and crop yields and at the same time, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and other related problems. The INM practice in the cropped fields showed a 1,355% reduction in methane over conventional nutrient management. The increase in crop yields due to the adoption of INM over conventional nutrient management was as high as 1.3% to 66.5% across the major cropping systems. Owing to the integration of organic manure and residue retention in INM, there is a possibility of significant improvement in soil aggregates and microbiota. Furthermore, most studies conducted to determine the impact of INM on soil health indicated a significant increase in overall soil health, with lower bulk density, higher porosity, and water-holding capacity. Overall, practicing INM would enhance soil health and crop productivity, in addition to decreasing environmental pollution, greenhouse gas emissions, and production costs.

Heavy Metals in Fly Ash as a Factor Limiting Its Use in Fertilizing Composts

Composting enables the recycling of significant amounts of biodegradable waste, while ensuring its disposal. The addition of fly ash increases the concentration of fertilizing substances in the compost. Compost is a source of many nutrients for plants. The addition of fly ash might also cause a slower release of these nutrients into an aqueous solution, meeting the fertilization needs of plants over a longer period of time. Tests were carried out using sewage sludge (WWTP Piaseczno, 163,500 P.E.), straw as a structure-forming material and fly ash (WWTP Krakow, 780,000 P.E.). The compost obtained in the research was analyzed in terms of environmental conditions specified in legal regulations. The most favorable compost mass density (520 kg/L) and the amount of air supplied to the process (5.0 L/(h∙kg d.m.)) were determined. The addition of fly ash to the compost mass did not significantly affect the temperature distribution obtained in the process. The increase in fly ash content increased the pH of the compost mass and was associated with higher nitrogen losses. It was found that the factor which may limit the possibility of using fly ash as a compost substrate is the presence of higher concentrations of heavy metals, especially chromium. It was determined that the maximum addition of fly ash to the compost mass was 154 kg d.m.ash/(ton d.m.straw+sludge).

Application of Vermicompost, Kasgot (BSF Compost), and Vermigot for growth and production of Pakchoy (Brassica rapa L.) in Ultisol

Ultisol have low organic matter content, acid pH, very low available nutrients, and high Al, therefore compost application is needed as a source of nutrients for plants in Ultisol. Vermicompost, which is produced from the decomposition of certain organic matter by earthworms. However, there is another decomposer that is producing compost, Black Soldier Fly larvae, it is called Kasgot (BSF compost). The new compost from combination of the two types both of compost is called Vermigot. This study aimed to examine the combination of vermicompost and kasgot from cow dung and banana stems on the growth of pakchoy in Ultisol soil. This study used a factorial randomized block design (RAK). The first factor is the type of compost (K): K1 (vermicompost), K2 (kasgot) and K3 (vermigot). The second factor is the dosage (D): D1 (100 g/pot), D2 (200 g/pot), and D3 (300 g/pot). The treatment was repeated two times so that 27 treatments were obtained. The best compost that could be used to increase the growth and production of pakchoy was vermigot compost 200 g/pot, while the type of compost with the best chemical characteristics and nutrient content in Ultisol soil was vermigot at a dose of 300 g/pot.

Effects of land use and site on organic carbon fractions in some humic soil profiles of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

Soil organic matter (SOM) and its different carbon (C) fractions play a vital role in storing C and are a source of plant nutrients in natural and managed ecosystems. This study was conducted at six sites in KwaZulu-Natal Province to determine the effect of land use on the distribution of C fractions in selected humic soil profiles from different sites, using chemical and physical fractionation. Land use at some sites had been converted from natural grassland to maize and cultivated pasture and at others from native forest/wattle plantation to sugarcane farming. Humic acids (HA), fulvic acids (FA), hot water extractable C (HWEC), particulate organic matter C (POM-C) and mineral-associated organic C (MAC) were analysed to 1 m depth. Cropping lowered POM-C and HWEC, in the top 100 mm, irrespective of site differences, under pasture, grassland, forest and wattle plantation. Amongst the most labile fractions, FA predominated, resulting in a HA:FA ratio < 1 for pastures. The MAC was not affected by land use, irrespective of site differences. These findings reveal that organic carbon in humic soils can be decreased by cultivation but does not inevitably indicate the loss of C storage in the stable pool.

Conversion of Lignocellulosic Wastes into Biofertilizer using Bacterial Consortium

Lignocellulosic biomass abundantly and ubiquitously occupies the earth. However, their complex molecular structure prevents their use as a source of organic material for fermentable sugars and nutrients to be used as foods, fertilizers and biofuels. For an efficient carbon cycle, microbial enzymes play a key role in slow biodegradation of lignocellulosic wastes in nature. Microbiological applications can enhance the rate of biodegradation to utilize agro-industrial and organic municipal solid wastes, containing up to 50% lignocellulose substrates, as an inexpensive and sustainable source of plant nutrients. With this hypothesis, the current study was carried out to prepare a consortium of lignocellulose degrading bacteria and use it to convert lignocellulosic substrates in garden, sugarcane, rice, cotton and fruit waste into biofertilizer. Overall, 7-14% reduction in cellulose and 3-6% reduction in lignin content, along with decrease in pH was observed on treatment of above wastes with microbial consortium in 42 days. In spite of the low conversion rates observed in our study, better root, shoot as well as leaf development was observed in moong seedlings grown in soil amended with biofertilizer (3:1 ratio) as compared to controls. Another interesting observation was the biofertilizers with low pH prepared from sugarcane wastes (pH 3.1) and fruit wastes (pH 3.6) supported plant growth more efficiently as compared to other biofertilizers (pH 5.0 to 5.7). Thus, in addition to feasible conversion of lignocellulosic wastes into biofertilizer, our study further suggests the use of selective wastes as raw material depending on the preference of plants for slightly acidic to neutral soil pH for growth.

Exploring the synergistic effects of biochar and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi on phosphorus acquisition in tomato plants by using gene expression analyses

Arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi are symbiotic organisms that contribute significantly to plant mineral nutrition, mainly phosphate. However, their benefits are constricted by the availability of phosphate in the soil, and thus they are recalcitrant as amendment in highly fertilized soils. Biochars are by-products of the pyrolysis of biomass in the absence of oxygen. They can improve soil properties and act as a source of nutrients for plants. However, depending on their origin, the final composition of biochars is extremely variable and thus, their efficiency unpredictable. In order to gain mechanistic insights into how the combined application of biochars and AM fungi contribute to plant phosphate nutrition and growth, we used gene expression analyses of key symbiotic marker genes. We compared for this analysis two biochars originated from very different feedstocks (chicken manure and wheat straw) on tomato plants with or without the AM fungus Rhizophagus irregularis. Our results show that the synergy between AM fungi and biochars as P biofertilizers is greatly governed by the origin of the biochar that determines the speed at which phosphate is released to the soil and absorbed by the plant. Thus, chicken manure biochar quickly impacted on plant growth by readily releasing P, but it turned out detrimental for symbiosis formation, decreasing colonization levels and expression of key symbiotic plant marker genes such as SlPT4 or SlFatM. In contrast, wheat straw biochar was inferior at improving plant growth but stimulated the establishment of the symbiosis, producing plants with the same concentration of phosphate as those with the chicken manure. Taken together, slow P releasing biochars from plant residues appears to be a more promising amendment for long terms experiments in which biofertilizers such as AM fungi are considered. Furthermore, our results indicate that implementing plant transcriptomic analyses might help to mechanistically dissect and better understand the effects of biochars on plant growth in different scenarios.

Eutrophic reservoir water suitability for irrigation in semi-arid region

Eutrophication is a common problem for the dams situated within an urban or agricultural catchment with a high source of untreated plant nutrients. This can negatively affect the hydro ecosystem, recreational and other uses of water. On the other hand, such eutrophic dams could also be a rich source of nutrients for agricultural use. Thinking irrigation as an alternative means of eutrophic reservoir water management, water suitability for irrigation was investigated for Roodeplaat Dam, South Africa using physicochemical parameters recorded (1981–2017) at five sampling stations. Irrigation suitability was evaluated in terms of nutrient content, salinity, soil infiltration, and toxicity problems to irrigated plants. Plant nutrients: NH4_N, NO3_NO2_N, PO4_P, are within the normal range. But K is above the normal range for irrigation use and can cause nitrogen deficiency. The salinity of 0.44 dS/m was found within the normal range with none restriction for irrigation use. Na toxicity in terms of SAR and Cl toxicity was none for both surface and sprinkler irrigated plants. The pH value of 8.4 was within the normal range (6.5–8.4). Generally, the quality of the reservoir water was categorized under C2S1 (medium salinity and low sodium hazard). Irrigation water can cause slight to moderate soil infiltration problem. Therefore, eutrophic reservoirs can be a potential source of readily available nutrients for irrigation and, hence irrigation use can be considered as one of the remedial measures to decrease nutrient accumulation in the reservoir. The existing water conveyance system can be used to transport water to agricultural fields.

Vermicompost Application on Shallot (Allium cepa, L.)

Vermicompost is an organic fertilizer containing essential macro and micronutrients for plant growth. This study aimed to determine the dose and time of vermicompost application to the shallot. The study was carried out at an altitude of 1054 meters above sea level in Air Duku Village, Selupu Rejang District, Rejang Lebong Regency, Bengkulu Province. A Split Plot Design with three replications was used in the study. The main plot was the time of vermicompost application, which was ten days before and during planting. Sub-plots were vermicompost doses of 0, 10, 20, 30, and 40 tons/ha. Vermicompost applied ten days before planting at a 40 ton/ha resulted in the tallest shallot shoot (36.60 cm) and the highest number of leaves (28.20). Vermicompost applied ten days before planting produced more shallot bulbs (4.46 bulbs), larger bulb diameter (19.18 mm), heavier bulb weight per clump (4.75 g), and heavier bulb weight per m2 (837.73 g) than vermicompost applied at planting. Vermicompost at a dose of 40 tons/ha resulted in 5.80 bulbs per plant, 18.96 mm bulb diameter, 4.63 g bulb weight per clump, and 1022.25 g bulb weight per m2, higher than the lower dose. Therefore, vermicompost could benefit as a source of plant nutrients, comparable to synthetic fertilizers in shallot production.

Determination of Essential Minerals in Manures of Selected Domestic Animals in Karatina and Their Effects on Soil and Plants

Calcium and Magnesium are part of the macro-nutrients required by plants from the soil for growth and development, they are also necessary for soil health to keep crops healthy. Calcium is needed in plants for the formation of new cells, roots, stems, and leaves. For the soil, calcium plays an important role in ensuring the Pretention capacity of water and nutrients. Magnesium is an important component of photosynthesis in plants and is found in chlorophyll which,the green pigment. The study investigated and compared the presence of calcium and magnesium levels in manures of several animals from different households around the Kagochi area. The samples collected were dried, blended and acid digested. AAS, A-A-700,0 (Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy) was used to analyze the manure samples. The data provided was presented in tables and graphs comparing the manures from both households. The mean levels of calcium and magnesium for both households one and two were found to be Ca 27.99 mg/L and Mg 6.23mg/L for household 1 and Ca 27.26 mg/L and Mg 6.32 mg/L for household 2. A strong correlation was found between manures in household one and those of household two in their calcium and magnesium concentrations. The manures were found to contribute a significant rise in soil pH. The information from the study will form a basis for manure’s importance and application for small-scale and large-scale crop growers and bring more value to manures as a source of plant and soil nutrients. Keywords: Manure, Calcium, Magnesium, Nutrients, PH, Fertilizer. DOI: 10.7176/CMR/15-1-03 Publication date: May 31 st 2023

Using water treatment sludge to Improve Geotechnical Engineering Properties of Soils: A Review

Water treatment sludge (WTS) is a byproduct generated during the treatment of wastewater. In recent years, researchers have explored the potential of using WTS as a soil stabilizer to improve the geotechnical properties of soils. In this review, we will examine the current state of knowledge on the use of WTS for this purpose. The organic matter content of WTS is usually high and can range from 30% to 60%. The high organic matter content makes WTS a potential source of nutrients for plants, and it can also enhance soil structure and water retention. Another important consideration is the environmental impact of using WTS. The use of WTS can be an eco-friendly alternative to chemical stabilizers, which can have adverse effects on the environment. However, there are concerns about the potential for heavy metal contamination in WTS. To mitigate this risk, it is recommended to conduct thorough testing of WTS before using it as a soil stabilizer. Finally, the use of WTS as a soil stabilizer has the potential to improve the geotechnical properties of soils. However, it is essential to consider factors such as the type and dosage of WTS, the soil type, and the environmental impact before using it. Further research is also needed to explore the potential of using WTS in different soil types and environmental conditions.

Research Progress on Effects of Biochar on Soil Environment and Crop Nutrient Absorption and Utilization

As a by-product generated from the pyrolysis of biomass, biochar is extraordinary for improving the soil environment of agricultural fields, improving soil fertility, and promoting nutrient uptake and the utilization of crops. In recent years, breakthroughs in progress have been made regarding the fertility value of biochar and in investigations into the physicochemical properties of soil and into plant nutrient utilization. This review focuses on the physicochemical and biological properties of soil, on soil pollution remediation, on greenhouse gas emissions, and on the effects of biochar on the uptake and utilization of soil nutrients and plant nutrients, as well as on the preparation of biochar, and on biochar produced under different conditions. The results of the relevant studies show that the main characteristics of biochar depend on the biochemical properties and pyrolysis temperature of raw materials, which play an important role in nutrient transport and transformation in the soil. At low temperatures (≤400 ℃), the biochar prepared from manure and waste contains a large amount of nitrogen, which can be used as a nutrient source for plants. In addition, biochar enhances soil fertilizer retention by reducing soil nutrient loss, which in turn promotes nutrient uptake and utilization by crops. By controlling pyrolysis temperature and by optimizing biochar input, one can effectively reduce soil respiration, as well as reduce carbon emissions to achieve the goal of controlling carbon sources and increasing carbon sinks. Therefore, a long-term series of mapping studies on the effects of biochar application on agricultural ecosystems should be conducted, which in turn, it is hoped, will provide a theoretical reference for the physiological and ecological effects of biochar croplands.

The effect of fertilization with microfiltered liquid digestate on the quality parameters of Citrus fruits

Nowadays, the adoption of sustainable agricultural practices, including the reduction of synthetic fertilizers, has become a challenge for the agriculture sector. In this experimental work, the effect of the liquid fraction of digestate (by-product of the anaerobic digestion process) as a fertilizer was evaluated. The aim of the research was to verify to which extent digestate can affect growth and quality parameters of orange fruits, comparing the results to those obtained for fruits grown on soil treated with conventional mineral fertilizers. To assess the effectiveness of the treatments, different qualitative and quantitative parameters of Citrus fruits were measured. In particular, the results showed slight differences between the two treatments, suggesting that digestate may be used for the production of high-quality fruits. Moreover, in some orchards, the Citrus fruits of the plants treated with digestate showed a higher concentration of health-promoting compounds, such as vitamin C, flavonoids, phenolic content, when compared to the control group. Thus, digestate can be considered an optimal source of plant nutrients and can be used as a crop growth promoter, since it represents an effective strategy for reducing the mineral fertilizers input.