A six-year field trial in Northern Italy (2018–2024) compared three compost types—FGC (food + green waste), FGCdig (anaerobically digested food + green waste), and BGW (biosolids + green waste)—against chemical fertilization and an unfertilized control. Two strategies were tested: annual compost application (Carbon Sink Trial) and compost every three years with mineral nitrogen in between (Nutrient Trial). After three years, yields under all compost treatments equaled those with chemical fertilizers. Nitrogen use efficiency increased from ~18% to ~49%, while soil organic carbon and phosphorus improved, especially under FGCdig. Heavy metals remained below legal limits. The study shows that compost alone can sustain crop productivity, enhance soil fertility, sequester carbon, and that alternating compost with mineral nitrogen effectively balances nutrients for long-term soil health. The content of this course is covered by Copyright and Licensing, Privacy and Terms of Service and Use and shall not be reprinted, reused or re-sold. For full terms visit www.compostu.net.
Speakers: Ambrogio Pigoli
Duration: 54 minutes
Credits: 1.0
Member Price: $60.00
Non-Member Price: $105.00
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USE.326-Long-Term Field Trial of Compost Application in a Corn-Whe…-AC26.USCC
