Guidelines for assessing compost quality for safe and effective utilization in vegetable production

Abstract

Compost is primarily a soil-amending product that may improve soil quality and the productivity of organic and conventional vegetable crops. Growers can use compost as a soil conditioner or as nutrient source to supplement the fertility program in vegetable production. Nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium may be low. To lower the environmental impact of high compost application rates and protect water supplies from excessive nutrient runoff or leaching, or an excessive soil nutrient buildup, compost should be applied to match the nutrient needs of a crop. Compost quality use guidelines for assessing compost quality for use in vegetable production are limited. The objective of this paper is to present guidelines for determining compost quality for use in organic or conventional vegetable production.