Evaluation of green/pruning wastes compost and vermicompost, slumgum compost and their mixes as growing media for horticultural production

Three composts were used as plant growing media: green and pruning wastes compost (GPC) and vermicompost (GPV) and slumgum compost (SLC). Their main physico-chemical and biological characteristics were studied and nine growth substrates were prepared in order to establish production essays for rosemary, Leyland cypress, lettuce, onion, petunia, and pansy. GPC compost and GPV vermicompost had excellent physico-chemical characteristics, allowing them to be considered good substrates. The high E.C. and the low GI values for SLC means that it should not be used in high proportions. However, the high concentration of N could permit its use in suitable fertilizers, especially in Leyland cypress. Rosemary, lettuce and onion were seen the more sensitive species to high dosage of compost. Leyland cypress, petunia and pansies recorded good growth rates with high GPC dosage. Finally, GPV, at a proportion of 25% of the substrate, could be a good sustainable practice for plant production. (C) 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.