THE trial of the effectiveness of compost as a fertiliser compared to chemical fertilisers that has been going on at Western Sydney University lands in Richmond has reported more results to local vegetable farmers.
More than 30 growers came along to the latest results day on November 25 to see how a capsicum crop was faring under three different fertiliser conditions.
The trial is a joint project of Greater Sydney Local Land Services, NSW Farmers and the Institute for Sustainable Futures at the University of Technology.
It aims to provide actual figures on just how much the use of compost can boost crop yield, improve soil health and reduce fertiliser costs for farmers.
The capsicum crops on view that day had received either compost, poultry manure or chemical fertilisers.
Research plant nutritionist Dr Geoff Cresswell said the study was showing even low rates of compost could benefit plant and soil health, as well as minimise the impact of fertilisers on the environment.
“Crops grown in compost-treated soil have stronger, healthier root systems which should make them more resistant to environmental stresses and improve their water and fertiliser use efficiency,” Dr Cresswell said.
Just as the right bacteria make all the difference to human guts, Dr Cresswell said there was also clear evidence the biological health of soils could be improved with compost.
“Soil testing has shown compost stimulates the activity of a broad range of beneficial organisms in the root zone soil. It is a type of probiotic for plants.
“These groups of organisms are known to increase the solubility of essential nutrients and help plants find and absorb them. Other organisms stimulated by compost are known to suppress pathogens in the soil and to increase plant resistance to drought and to diseases.
“These trials have also provided evidence that leaching of nutrients into ground water is reduced by compost.
“This not only minimises the environmental impact of farming but could also result in lower fertiliser costs to the grower.”
Greater Sydney Land Services manager Bill Dixon said the full findings of the monitoring would be showcased in the new year.
“This is a key project, part of our ongoing work to support a more productive and sustainable agriculture industry, not just in the Sydney basin but throughout NSW,” Mr Dixon said.
“We do that by consulting directly with local growers and bringing government and industry together.”
The $460,000 Next Generation Compost project is funded through the NSW EPA Waste Less, Recycle More initiative.