Effect of compost made with sludge and organic residues on soil and sugar beet crop in Morocco

Abstract

The objective of this study was to determine the effects of the application of different doses of compost made with sludge and organic residues from plants on some soil characteristics, growth and yield of sugar beet (Beta vulgaris L.) grown in Moroccan soil having low organic matter. A field experiment was conducted and complete randomized block with four replicates was designed. Treatments consisted of control without any organic amendment and three concentrations of compost (2.5, 5.0 and 7.5 t ha–1). Results showed that, in general, application of at least 5 t ha–1 of compost increased soil organic matter along with C rates and other mineral nutrients such as N, P and K. Application of 5 t ha–1 of compost significantly increased sugar beet biomass and recoverable sugar yield. This beneficial effect was reversed with the highest dose of 7.5 t ha–1.