The Influence of Compost and Zeolite Co-addition on the Nutrients Status and Plant Growth in Intensively Cultivated Mediterranean Soils
The study investigates the effects of co-adding compost and zeolite on the fertility of organic-rich Mediterranean soils, specifically focusing on potato cultivation in the Hula Valley, Israel. Previous greenhouse experiments indicated that zeolite mixed with compost improved potassium availability in soils. To validate these findings, a field experiment was conducted with four treatments: 5% compost without zeolite, 2% zeolite without compost, co-addition of 5% compost and 2% zeolite, and a control group. The results showed that compost significantly increased potato yield and the number of large tubers, while zeolite addition did not affect yield. Co-addition of compost and zeolite did not enhance crop yield compared to compost alone. Nutrient availability (nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium) was assessed, revealing that compost addition led to higher nutrient concentrations, while zeolite's impact was minimal in the field setting. The study concluded that while zeolite may improve nutrient retention in high-leaching systems, its benefits are limited in fields with substantial compost application. The research emphasizes the importance of compost in enhancing soil fertility and crop yield, while questioning the cost-effectiveness of zeolite use in large-scale agricultural practices.
This research paper is significant in the field of sustainable agriculture, particularly in Mediterranean regions where soil fertility is a concern. It contributes to ongoing discussions about soil amendments and their effectiveness in enhancing crop yields. The findings challenge previous greenhouse-based assumptions about zeolite's benefits, highlighting the need for field-based research to inform agricultural practices. The study offers practical insights for farmers and agricultural researchers regarding the use of compost and zeolite, emphasizing the importance of cost-effectiveness and nutrient management in crop production.
