Comparison of the Capability of Different Composts Based on Available Nutrients and Heavy Metals for Chrysanthemum Cultivation

摘要

This study aimed to determine optimal Chrysanthemum growth on two?composts of different qualities applied at different rates: swine compost (immature) and?commercial compost (mature). The chemical characteristics of the two composts were?estimated in combination with commercial soil at 0%, 10%, and 25% (w/w), respectively.?The values of essential nutrients, beneficial heavy metals, and Pb concentration were enhanced significantly with a high rate of mature compost application in both soil and?plant cells. In addition, plant growth was better than the control; the highest plant fresh?weight and leaf area were significantly increased up to 74% and 60%, respectively; however,?no difference was found in the plant height. Available nutrients and potential heavy?metals in the soil with a high rate of immature compost application were indicated to?be the same as those after 10% mature compost application. However, the reasonable?compost level for the cultivation of Chrysanthemum was 10% and 25% for commercial?and swine composts, respectively. Because a high rate of immature compost application could lower the pH and induce inefficiency in certain nutrients during the period of?juvenile plant development, this compost should be applied carefully.