Revolutionizing composting: Organic substrates combat soil-borne plant diseases effectively.
The researchers studied how different types of organic materials affect the composting process and the effectiveness of compost extracts in fighting plant diseases. They made four compost piles with varying mixtures of cattle, sheep, and poultry manure, along with wheat straw. The piles were regularly watered and turned. The temperature was highest in the pile with more carbon-rich materials. The pH levels became neutral by the end of the process. Nitrogen levels decreased during composting. In the second part of the study, compost extracts were made and tested on various plant pathogens, both in the lab and on plants.