Nitrification of leachates from manure composting under field conditions and their use in horticulture

Waste Manag. 2015 Oct:44:72-81. doi: 10.1016/j.wasman.2015.07.039. Epub 2015 Jul 31.

Abstract

This work aimed to demonstrate the feasibility of nitrification applied to the treatment of leachates formed during composting of cattle and pig manure in order to promote their further use as liquid fertilizer in horticulture. Nitrification trials were successfully conducted in summer and winter seasons under Mediterranean climate conditions. Subsequently, effect of using the nitrified effluents as nutritive solution in the fertigation of lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) was assessed in terms of productivity and nutrient uptake. Similar productivities were obtained when using the nitrified effluents and a standard nutritive solution. However, results also evidenced high nutrient uptake, which indicates that dosage should be adjusted to culture requirements.

Keywords: Composting leachate; Horticultural value; Lettuce; Nitrate; Nitrification; Nutrient uptake.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cattle
  • Fertilizers / analysis*
  • Lactuca / drug effects*
  • Lactuca / growth & development
  • Manure / analysis*
  • Nitrification*
  • Refuse Disposal / methods*
  • Spain
  • Sus scrofa
  • Water Pollutants, Chemical / chemistry*

Substances

  • Fertilizers
  • Manure
  • Water Pollutants, Chemical