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Relevance. In the transition to highly productive and environmentally friendly, in particular, organic agriculture and production of safe and high-quality products, which is a priority direction of strategies of scientific and technological development of the Russian Federation, one of the necessary links is the creation and control of optimal conditions of plant nutrition, i.e. provision of plants with nutrients in the right combination throughout the vegetation. Achievement of such conditions is possible through soil and plant nutrition diagnostics, which in turn allows to establish the ability of crops to assimilate nutrients from the soil and adjust the doses of mineral fertilisers as top dressings.Material and Methods. On alluvial meadow soil in the conditions of the non-Black Earth region of Russia, the effectiveness of root feeding with macronutrients (NPK) was studied according to the results of plant and soil diagnostics of table root crops nutrition when grown on organic and mineral fertiliser systems. Plant and soil diagnostics of mineral nutrition was carried out according to the methods of Zerling V.V. (1990) and Magnitsky K.P. (1972). Two crops were tested during the experiment: red beet variety Mulatka and garden carrot variety Losinoostrovskaya 13.Results and Discussion. Root fertilizers on the basis of nutrition diagnostics on the basis of soil and leaf petiole analysis made significant changes in the dynamics of basic nutrients in the soil, there was an increase in nitrate nitrogen and mobile potassium in comparison with the control variant, with natural soil supply of mobile phosphorus (more than 250 mg/kg), which had a positive effect on the root nutrition of plants. At the main application of mineral and organic (biocompost BIUD) fertilizers, root fertilizers according to nutrition diagnostics the carrot yield 51,2-63,9 t/ha with standard 87,4- 94,6%, red beet 41,7-54,2 t/ha with standard 80,7-92,3% were obtained. Root feeding of carrots by soil diagnostics N52K14 on the background of biocompost gave 24.9% increase to the control, by plant diagnostics N17 gave 16.6%; red beet by soil diagnostics N65K45 – 30% increase, by plant diagnostics N54K30 – 23.7%

Pak choy and mustard greens are traditionally grown with many inorganic fertilisers, which can reduce soil fertility when applied frequently. The adoption of organic fertilisers offers a sustainable solution to this challenge. This study investigates the impact of liquid organic fertiliser (LOF) derived from goat urine, Moringa leaves, and banana stems on the growth and yield of pak choy and mustard greens. The research design employed a randomised complete block design with four treatments and ten replications. These treatments included a control group, 100% nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium (NPK, inorganic fertiliser), 100% LOF, and a 50% NPK + 50% LOF blend. The application of LOF, sourced from goat urine, Moringa leaves, and banana stems, demonstrated a significant influence on nearly all plant parameters. Notably, the 100% LOF treatment yielded the highest results for fresh leaf weight (26.46 g), fresh stalk weight (39.64 g), dry leaf weight (4.57 g), stem diameter (48.27 mm), Soil Plant Analysis Development value (SPAD, 40.73 units), plant height (31.59 cm), leaf width (8.45 cm), and leaf length (13.33 cm) for pak choy. Additionally, 100% LOF also produced the highest results for fresh leaf weight (21.34 g), dry root weight (0.31 g), stem diameter (21.53 mm), SPAD value (32.40 units), plant height (31.59 cm), leaf width (10.40 cm), and leaf length (15.65 cm) for mustard greens. This study demonstrates that a blend of goat urine, Moringa leaves, and banana stems can be used as a LOF that can replace inorganic NPK fertilisers in growing pak choy and mustard. It not only addresses issues with soil fertility but also contributes to environmentally friendly farming practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A multi-year analysis of the state of the livestock sector in the period before the outbreak of war in 2022 is important for the post-war recovery of Ukraine's regions. The purpose of the research was to identify the factors of losses in the production of livestock products, methods and means of integrated development. The generally accepted methods in zootechnology were followed, the study was conducted over a thirty-year period (1991-2021) in accordance with the stages of research work number: 0121U113933 of 18.11.2021. It was found that the number of cattle decreased by 8.4 times, and cows - by 5.2 times. Gross milk production decreased by 2.7 times, and beef and veal production - by 4.5 times. Improving the genetic potential of livestock, feeding, and housing contributed to an increase in cow productivity by 2,842 kg on average in the region and by 4,693 kg at the enterprises. As of 01.01.2021, 5 stud farms of the Ukrainian Black-and-White dairy breed were established with a population of 12,369 heads, including 4,647 cows, with a milk yield of 9,749 kg in 2020. The profitability of milk production in 2019 was 20.6%, while cattle breeding for meat was unprofitable (-27.1%). Many farms turn manure into compost and apply it to the soil for ploughing. Between 1991 and 2021, the Kharkiv region lost the potential of the dairy industry, the number of cattle decreased, with the largest decline in 1991-2001 (6.54 times). Milk production decreased by 2.7 times and beef and veal production by 4.5 times, with the main "drop" occurring between 1990 and 2010 (by 2.7 and 4.5 times respectively). The average annual milk yield per cow in the region from 1990 to 2020 increased by 2,840 kg and in 2020 amounted to 5,821 kg. Practical value: the article is the first to provide a long-term analysis of the state of the cattle breeding industry before the outbreak of hostilities in Ukraine, taking into account technological, organisational and economic aspects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The introduces new agrotechnological crop rotations is relevant in the context of environmental protection. The study aims to investigate the effectiveness of introducing two crop rotations on degraded lands in the Mykolaiv region, where active military operations were conducted. The study determined that the introduction of new crop rotations led to a 1.3-fold increase in gross output compared to previous data. In a five-field crop rotation, growing perennial grasses for green fodder together with annual grasses for silage restored soil fertility and increased yields by 30 c/ha compared to existing economic indicators. Oat yields with perennial grasses increased by 18 c/ha. Growing corn for silage and green fodder provided an additional 100 cwt/ ha. An increase in the yield of fodder roots and annual grasses for green fodder by 110 c/ha demonstrated the effectiveness of the new crop rotations. In a seven-season crop rotation, the introduction of perennial grasses increased soil fertility reduced soil erosion, and increased yields of winter wheat and sugar beet. Sugar beet yields increased by 25 c/ha, while potatoes and grain corn yields increased by 55 c/ha. The introduction of annual grasses, pulses and buckwheat helped to increase yields by 28 c/ ha. The results of the study can be used by local communities to develop and implement environmental measures and programmes aimed at restoring the structure and fertility of damaged lands and preserving their quality

The introduces new agrotechnological crop rotations is relevant in the context of environmental protection. The study aims to investigate the effectiveness of introducing two crop rotations on degraded lands in the Mykolaiv region, where active military operations were conducted. The study determined that the introduction of new crop rotations led to a 1.3-fold increase in gross output compared to previous data. In a five-field crop rotation, growing perennial grasses for green fodder together with annual grasses for silage restored soil fertility and increased yields by 30 c/ha compared to existing economic indicators. Oat yields with perennial grasses increased by 18 c/ha. Growing corn for silage and green fodder provided an additional 100 cwt/ha. An increase in the yield of fodder roots and annual grasses for green fodder by 110 c/ha demonstrated the effectiveness of the new crop rotations. In a seven-season crop rotation, the introduction of perennial grasses increased soil fertility reduced soil erosion, and increased yields of winter wheat and sugar beet. Sugar beet yields increased by 25 c/ha, while potatoes and grain corn yields increased by 55 c/ha. The introduction of annual grasses, pulses and buckwheat helped to increase yields by 28 c/ha. The results of the study can be used by local communities to develop and implement environmental measures and programmes aimed at restoring the structure and fertility of damaged lands and preserving their quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines the relationship between cooperative membership and investments in organic soil amendments in Cameroon. We use switching regressions to reduce selection bias and estimate differential equations for both cooperative members and non-members. Cooperative membership exhibits a positive and significant relationship with the use of organic soil amendments such as farmyard manure and compost. Building on this, we further examine actual-counterfactual relationships where we find cooperative membership to be beneficial to both members and non-members should they be members. We also highlight significant heterogeneities and differential associations in the drivers and constraints of organic soil investments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We analysed long-term (1992–2020) changes in fertiliser use, wastewater treatment, and river water nutrient status in Estonia (N-E Europe) in the context of changing socio-economic situations and legislation. We hypothesised that improved regulation of fertiliser usage and wastewater treatment are reflected as declining riverine nutrient concentrations, with the largest relative improvements occurring in catchments with initially high proportions of point source loading. We analysed nutrient dynamics in 16 rivers differing by catchment land use, population and livestock densities. Data on fertiliser use and wastewater treatment originated from the Statistics Estonia database, and riverine nutrient concentrations from the State Environmental Monitoring Database. We clustered the rivers by their catchment properties and analysed trends in their nutrient status. Point source nutrient loading reductions explained most of the decline in riverine nutrient concentrations, whereas application of mineral fertilisers has increased, hindering efforts to reach water quality and nutrient load targets set by the EU Water Framework Directive and the Baltic Sea Action Plan. Highest nitrogen concentrations and strongest increasing trends were found in rivers within the Nitrate Vulnerable Zone, indicating violation of the EU Nitrates Directive. To comply with these directives, resource managers must address non-point source nutrient loading from river watersheds. HIGHLIGHTS Drop in point source loading explained the decline in riverine nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) since 1994.; Fertiliser and wastewater management measures failed short to meet the water quality and nutrient load targets set by the EU Water Framework Directive.; Highest N concentrations and strongest increasing trends were found in rivers within the nitrate vulnerable zone violating the EU Nitrates Directive.;

Abstract Background Malaria vectors have a strong ecological association with rice agroecosystems, which can provide abundant aquatic habitats for larval development. Climate-adapted rice cultivation practices, such as the System of Rice Intensification (SRI), are gaining popularity in malaria-endemic countries seeking to expand rice production; however, the potential impact of these practices on vector populations has not been well characterised. In particular, SRI encourages the use of organic fertilisers (OFs), such as animal manures, as low-cost and environmentally friendly alternatives to industrially produced inorganic fertilisers. We therefore set out to understand the effects of two common manure-based OFs on the life history traits of two major African malaria vectors, Anopheles arabiensis and Anopheles gambiae sensu stricto (s.s.). Methods Larvae of An. arabiensis and An. gambiae s.s. were reared from first instar to emergence in water containing either cow or chicken dung at one of four concentrations (0.25, 0.5, 0.75, and 1.0 g/100 ml), or in a clean water control. Their life history traits were recorded, including survival, development rate, adult production, and adult wing length. Results Exposure to cow dung significantly increased the development rate of An. gambiae s.s. independent of concentration, but did not affect the overall survival and adult production of either species. Chicken dung, however, significantly reduced survival and adult production in both species, with a greater effect as concentration increased. Interestingly, An. arabiensis exhibited a relative tolerance to the lowest chicken dung concentration, in that survival was unaffected and adult production was not reduced to the same extent as in An. gambiae s.s. The effects of chicken dung on development rate were less clear in both species owing to high larval mortality overall, though there was some indication that it may reduce development rate. Adult wing lengths in males and females increased with higher concentrations of both cow and chicken dung. Conclusions Our findings suggest that manure-based OFs significantly alter the life history traits of An. gambiae s.s. and An. arabiensis. In both species, exposure to cow dung may improve fitness, whereas exposure to chicken dung may reduce it. These findings have implications for understanding vector population dynamics in rice agroecosystems and may inform the use of OFs in SRI, and rice agriculture more widely, to avoid their adverse effects in enhancing vector fitness. Graphical Abstract

Increasing crop yields is a universal goal but excessive application of fertiliser has brought environmental problems: heavy metals present in mineral fertilisers accumulate in the soil, crops absorb them and they enter the food chain; artificial nitrogen fertilisers are energy-intensive, associated with big GHG emissions and eutrophication. Organic fertilisers are safer and the area under organic farming is increasing steadily. We consider competent application of organic nitrogen fertilisers to improve food security and soil health. Determination of the necessary return of nutrients to the soil is based on the removal of these substances by cultivated plants per yield unit. Diagnostic topsoil samples were used for this purpose and the obtained indicators were entered into the formula for calculating the optimum doses and timing of applications of organic fertilisers, which were then applied, in defined stages, to crops in the field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present developed a bioprocess to produce nano-biofertilizers from agro-industrial residues by augmentation of microbial agents and vermitechnology. The agroresidues like coir peat, neem cake, pongamia cake, castor cake and polyculture of microorganisms having psuedomonas florescence, microbacterium laevoniformins and pseudomonas putida are added to initiate the degradation of complex biomolecules in the plant biomass into nanosized nutrients line nitrogen (N), phosphorous (P) and potassium (K). The stabilization of produced nano-nutrients are achieved by subjecting to vermitechnology to produce vermicompost aggregates through the associated gut enzymes. The nano-dimension of nutrients are conformed through UV spectrophotometer resulted in higher obsorption compared to control vermicompost. The nano-dimension of nano-nutrients were confirmed by subjecting to dynamic light scattering (DLS) techniques which ranged between 25-50nm. The safety and growth efficiency of nano-fertilizer has been assessed using bioassays like seed germination test on raddish vegetable crop which yielded 100 per cent over vermicompost 90 per cent germination efficiency. The growth indices in the potculutre studies reveals 100 per cent over control vermicompost applied plants showing 90 per cent. This gives scientific support to application of nano-biofertilizer to enhance the growth and yield of the crop and also standardized the process to produce nanobiofertilizers using augmented method of microbial polyculture and vermitechnology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In addition to industry, transport, and waste management, the agricultural sector is also a major emitter of CO2 emissions. This article focuses on CO2 equivalent emissions from soil in the context of mineral nitrogen fertiliser management. The methodology itself consists of several successive phases, the first of which is to determine basic statistical characteristics for all EU countries, primarily in terms of mineral nitrogen fertiliser consumption, but also in terms of the area of crops grown. EU countries with similar cropping patterns were selected for comparison so that the results could be compared. The results show that there are quite significant differences in CO2 equivalent emissions between countries under similar conditions. At the same time, the values of the marginal increment of CO2 emissions as a function of mineral nitrogen fertiliser consumption were calculated. On the basis of the results of the selected countries, an upper limit in terms of CO2 emissions per hectare of arable land was also determined, and recommendations were made from a national perspective. The emissions themselves can be seen as a negative production externality that is not accounted for in the market mechanism and can thus also distort the price of agricultural production. The methodology used in this paper can be used to set an upper limit on CO2 emissions from soil due to the use of mineral nitrogen fertilisers and can then be used as an indicator for regulating and defining future agricultural policy instruments within the EU, where the objective is to reduce the level of CO2 emissions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Malaria vectors have a strong ecological association with rice agroecosystems, which can provide abundant aquatic habitats for larval development. Climate-adapted rice cultivation practices, such as the System of Rice Intensifcation (SRI), are gaining popularity in malaria-endemic countries seeking to expand rice production; however, the potential impact of these practices on vector populations has not been well characterised. In particular, SRI encourages the use of organic fertilisers (OFs), such as animal manures, as low-cost and environmentally friendly alternatives to industrially produced inorganic fertilisers. We therefore set out to understand the efects of two common manure-based OFs on the life history traits of two major African malaria vectors, Anopheles arabiensis and Anopheles gambiae sensu stricto (s.s.). Methods: Larvae of An. arabiensis and An. gambiae s.s. were reared from frst instar to emergence in water containing either cow or chicken dung at one of four concentrations (0.25, 0.5, 0.75, and 1.0 g/100 ml), or in a clean water control. Their life history traits were recorded, including survival, development rate, adult production, and adult wing length. Results: Exposure to cow dung signifcantly increased the development rate of An. gambiae s.s. independent of concentration, but did not afect the overall survival and adult production of either species. Chicken dung, however, signifcantly reduced survival and adult production in both species, with a greater efect as concentration increased. Interestingly, An. arabiensis exhibited a relative tolerance to the lowest chicken dung concentration, in that survival was unafected and adult production was not reduced to the same extent as in An. gambiae s.s. The efects of chicken dung on development rate were less clear in both species owing to high larval mortality overall, though there was some indication that it may reduce development rate. Adult wing lengths in males and females increased with higher concentrations of both cow and chicken dung. Conclusions: Our fndings suggest that manure-based OFs signifcantly alter the life history traits of An. gambiae s.s. and An. arabiensis. In both species, exposure to cow dung may improve ftness, whereas exposure to chicken dung may reduce it. These fndings have implications for understanding vector population dynamics in rice agroecosystems and may inform the use of OFs in SRI, and rice agriculture more widely, to avoid their adverse efects in enhancing vector ftness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We analysed long-term (1992-2020) changes in fertiliser use, wastewater treatment, and river water nutrient status in Estonia (N-E Europe) in the context of changing socio-economic situations and legislation. We hypothesised that improved regulation of fertiliser usage and wastewater treatment are reflected as declining riverine nutrient concentrations, with the largest relative improvements occurring in catchments with initially high proportions of point source loading. We analysed nutrient dynamics in 16 rivers differing by catchment land use, population and livestock densities. Data on fertiliser use and wastewater treatment originated from the Statistics Estonia database, and riverine nutrient concentrations from the State Environmental Monitoring Database. We clustered the rivers by their catchment properties and analysed trends in their nutrient status. Point source nutrient loading reductions explained most of the decline in riverine nutrient concentrations, whereas application of mineral fertilisers has increased, hindering efforts to reach water quality and nutrient load targets set by the EU Water Framework Directive and the Baltic Sea Action Plan. Highest nitrogen concentrations and strongest increasing trends were found in rivers within the Nitrate Vulnerable Zone, indicating violation of the EU Nitrates Directive. To comply with these directives, resource managers must address non-point source nutrient loading from river watersheds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Among the various disposal strategies for sewage sludge (SS), soil application is the most suitable. This study was conducted to evaluate soil amendment with SS (0, 10, 20, 30 and 40 g/kg) and its impact on soil fertility and tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) growth. The SS significantly improved the agromorphological attributes, the number of produced fruits, and the fruit biomass of tomato plants. The 30 g/kg application of SS led to the highest growth rate and fruit yield. Considering the fruits, the best safe enrichment of metal nutrients was recorded at 30 g/kg, with a significant increase in the micronutrient metals Mn, Zn, Ni, Cu, and Fe with 624, 193, 125, 70, and 32%, respectively, compared to the control. The SS amendment enhanced soil fertility, and heavy metals were within the permissible ranges for agricultural soils. Bioaccumulation factors (BFs) indicated that SS application induced the accumulation of most of the studied metals in the roots, and the BF values of Zn, Cu, Ni, and Pb were > 1. The current study concluded that recirculating SS nutrient components to agricultural soils could offer a valid solution for the sustainable management of this organic waste and enhance plant-crop productivity.

Although organic fertilizers as a whole do not express any pesticide action in some cases, some of them can prove a completely satisfactory level of pest protection, acting as fungicides or zoocides. Some of them even can express induced system resistance effectiveness. In the present study, the effectiveness of four novels, organic fertilizers created by Bulgarian company Agriflor on the base of fulvic acid and algal extracts was established in the in vitro conditions towards conidiospores of Monilia fructigena and Monilia laxa – major plant pathogens on orchard plants causing a lot of damages every year. The conducted trials reveal from the one side that all of tested products can express a strong antifungal action towards the germination of the conidiospores and ultra violet light can have a strong stimulation effect on the antifungal action of tested fertilizers from the other side. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In addition to industry, transport, and waste management, the agricultural sector is also a major emitter of CO2 emissions. This article focuses on CO2 equivalent emissions from soil in the context of mineral nitrogen fertiliser management. The methodology itself consists of several successive phases, the first of which is to determine basic statistical characteristics for all EU countries, primarily in terms of mineral nitrogen fertiliser consumption, but also in terms of the area of crops grown. EU countries with similar cropping patterns were selected for comparison so that the results could be compared. The results show that there are quite significant differences in CO2 equivalent emissions between countries under similar conditions. At the same time, the values of the marginal increment of CO2 emissions as a function of mineral nitrogen fertiliser consumption were calculated. On the basis of the results of the selected countries, an upper limit in terms of CO2 emissions per hectare of arable land was also determined, and recommendations were made from a national perspective. The emissions themselves can be seen as a negative production externality that is not accounted for in the market mechanism and can thus also distort the price of agricultural production. The methodology used in this paper can be used to set an upper limit on CO2 emissions from soil due to the use of mineral nitrogen fertilisers and can then be used as an indicator for regulating and defining future agricultural policy instruments within the EU, where the objective is to reduce the level of CO2 emissions.

In sub-Saharan Africa, the high cost of synthetic fertilisers and the need to produce higher quality crops have necessitated research on alternative nutrient inputs. The effects of soil amendments with poultry manure + Tithonia diversifolia compost at 10, 20, 30 t ha−1 (PMC10, PMC20, PMC30), cow dung + T. diversifolia compost at 10, 20, and 30 t ha−1 (CDC10, CDC20, CDC30) poultry manure (PM) at 10 t ha−1 (PM10), cow dung (CD) at 15 t ha−1 (CD15), and T. diversifolia (TT) at 10 t ha−1 (TT10) on growth, yield and quality of okra was investigated in a field trial in Abeokuta, Nigeria in 2011 and 2013. Treatments were arranged using a randomised block design with three replicates. The highest numbers of leaves per plant (14) were recorded in the treatments with PMC20 and PMC30 in 2011 and 2013, respectively. Application of PMC20 significantly reduced the number of days to 50% flowering compared with the control. In 2011, the potassium concentration in okra leaves and the nitrogen concentration in okra pods were highest for plants grown in soil amended with PMC30. The uptake of phosphorus was highest for plants treated with CDC20 (1.26 g m−2) and with TT10 (0.65 g m−2) in 2011 and 2013, respectively. All treatments resulted in significant increases in the yield of pods compared with the control. PM and CD used either in their original forms or composted with Tithonia diversifolia improved the growth and yield of the okra and the nutrient concentrations of the pods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Among the various disposal strategies for sewage sludge (SS), soil application is the most suitable. This study was conducted to evaluate soil amendment with SS (0, 10, 20, 30 and 40 g/kg) and its impact on soil fertility and tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) growth. The SS significantly improved the agromorphological attributes, the number of produced fruits, and the fruit biomass of tomato plants. The 30 g/kg application of SS led to the highest growth rate and fruit yield. Considering the fruits, the best safe enrichment of metal nutrients was recorded at 30 g/kg, with a significant increase in the micronutrient metals Mn, Zn, Ni, Cu, and Fe with 624, 193, 125, 70, and 32%, respectively, compared to the control. The SS amendment enhanced soil fertility, and heavy metals were within the permissible ranges for agricultural soils. Bioaccumulation factors (BFs) indicated that SS application induced the accumulation of most of the studied metals in the roots, and the BF values of Zn, Cu, Ni, and Pb were > 1. The current study concluded that recirculating SS nutrient components to agricultural soils could offer a valid solution for the sustainable management of this organic waste and enhance plant-crop productivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The recycling of key nutrients and bioenergy from waste materials is a goal of sustainable agriculture. The co-application of biochar and a vermicompost solution (vermiwash) could enhance the positive effects of both materials on soil biomass and biological activities. Tomato plants were grown in soil amended with biochar, mixed at a rate of 2% w/w, and vermiwash, applied through fertigation at a rate of 25 mg per plant, alone (B and V) and in combination (BV). Organic C, dissolved organic C (DOC), soil biomass C, and some enzymatic activities were determined at the start (T0) and the end (T100) of the cultivation period in bulk soil and rhizosphere soil. B and V significantly increased the organic C and soil biomass contents. In addition, B retained the DOC species derived from the soil and, in the BV treatment, also the humic substance of the vermiwash. Generally, all the parameters achieved higher values in the rhizosphere than in the bulk soil. The altered soil index three (AI3) of enzyme activities suggests that applying V and B is helpful for the soil microorganisms. Synergisms between B and V were low in the bulk soil and clearly evident in the rhizosphere.

The aim of this study was to evaluate changes in chemical soil properties of permanent grasslands after the cessation of their regular utilisation and organic fertilisation. A long‑term small plot trial was established in 2004 in locality Rapotín. During 2004 – 2012 the experiment was fertilised with compost and slurry, both with the range of stocking rates 0.9, 1.4, and 2.0 livestock units (LU).ha−1 (corresponding to 54, 84, and 120 kg N.ha−1). It was further observed the unfertilised grassland as control. The plots were cut 2 – 4 times per year depending on given dose of fertiliser. During 2013 –2016 the regular management was ceased and the grasslands were completely abandoned. It was found statistically significant influence of the year and the type of fertiliser almost for all evaluated parameters. The dose of nitrogen was not significant. On the basis of our results we can conclude, that the both types of the organic fertilisers had a positive influence on the chemical soil properties, however, the compost manifested itself as the better fertiliser than the slurry from this point of view. In 2016, four years after the last application of the organic fertilisers, there were found the better chemical soil conditions in the treatments previously fertilised with compost.

Cardoon (Cynara cardunculus L.) is considered as one of the most suitable energy crops for Southern Europe. The aim of this work was to outline the effects of organic fertilisers on the productivity and the global warming potential (GWP) on cardoon production. Six fertilisers (N 100 kg ha−1, N 50 kg ha−1, Compost 30 t ha−1, Compost 15 t ha−1 + N 25 kg ha−1, 3 t ha−1 of defatted oilseed meals of sunflower, 3 t ha−1 of defatted oilseed meals of Brassica carinata), and unfertilised control, were evaluated on two cultivars ('Gobbo di Nizza' and 'Altilis 41') in a split-plot experiment. Defatted oilseed meal of sunflower recorded higher total dry weight (+10%), seed yield (+17%), nitrogen use efficiency (+14%) and better GWP (−66%) compared to the other organic fertilisers and performing as well as N 100 kg ha−1. Altilis 41 cultivar showed the highest aboveground total dry weight (10 t ha−1 y−1), seed yield (1.7 t ha−1 y−1), stalk dry weight (7 t ha−1 y−1) and head dry weight (3 t ha−1 y−1). Our results highlighted that by combining suitable cultivar and fertilisation strategies, it could be possible to increase the production sustainability of C. cardunculus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In organic horticultural systems, cover crops could provide several ecological services, therefore, they can be defined agroecological service crops (ASCs). The objective of this two-year research was to study the suitability on melon production of different ASC termination strategies, in combination with organic fertilisers application. In a split-block design, the main-plot was the ASC management, comparing: i) green manure, in which the vetch was chopped and plowed into the soil; and ii) roller-crimper (RC), in which the vetch was flattened by a roller-crimper; with iii) fallow control, without vetch. The subplot consisted of offfarm organic inputs: i) commercial humified fertiliser; ii) anaerobic digestate fertiliser; iii) composted municipal solid wastes; which were compared to iv) unfertilised control (N0). At vetch termination, above soil biomass and nitrogen (N) content were determined. At harvesting, crop yield performance and quality, N status and N efficiency were investigated. Also, main soil characteristics were assessed at the end of the trial. Among the ASC managements, the slightly reduced yield in the RC plots particularly in combination with N0 might have been the result of less N supplied by the vetch during the melon cycle. Anyway, no negative effects were observed for yield quality. The use of the RC showed a great potential in enhancing soil fertility. Our study suggests the suitability in organic farming of properly matching management of ASC and fertilisation strategies on melon crop.

The aim of this study was to assess the short-term effects of tillage practice (reduced tillage - RT; standard tillage - ST) and fertilisation regime (solid cattle manure - SCM; lucerne pellets - LP; grass/clover silage - GCS) on soil quality indicators in an organic potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) production system. Use of RT enhanced the biomass and number of earthworms compared with ST. Concentrations of soil mineral N (NO-3 and NH+4) showed similar decreasing patterns over time across both tillage systems during the potato production period. However, soil mineral N was overall higher in the 0-15 cm soil layer for RT and in the 15-30 cm layer for ST. Soil bulk density was higher for RT than ST at 1, 4 and 7 weeks after planting, while a linear reverse correlation was found between soil bulk density and tuber yield. Although both soil temperature and soil moisture content were not found to be greatly affected by tillage practice, net soil N mineralisation was estimated to be 65 kg N ha-1 greater under ST than RT for the potato production period. The application of LP and GCS resulted in higher mid- and end-season soil mineral N concentrations and crop N accumulation at harvest compared to SCM. During initial adaptation to reduced tillage practices in organic potato systems, farmers need to carefully weigh potential conflicts between initial yield reductions and soil conservation goals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In organic horticultural systems, cover crops could provide several ecological services, therefore, they can be defined agroecological service crops (ASCs). The objective of this two-year research was to study the suitability on melon production of different ASC termination strategies, in combination with organic fertilisers application. In a split-block design, the main-plot was the ASC management, comparing: i) green manure, in which the vetch was chopped and plowed into the soil; and ii) roller-crimper (RC), in which the vetch was flattened by a roller-crimper; with iii) fallow control, without vetch. The subplot consisted of offfarm organic inputs: i) commercial humified fertiliser; ii) anaerobic digestate fertiliser; iii) composted municipal solid wastes; which were compared to iv) unfertilised control (N0). At vetch termination, above soil biomass and nitrogen (N) content were determined. At harvesting, crop yield performance and quality, N status and N efficiency were investigated. Also, main soil characteristics were assessed at the end of the trial. Among the ASC managements, the slightly reduced yield in the RC plots particularly in combination with N0 might have been the result of less N supplied by the vetch during the melon cycle. Anyway, no negative effects were observed for yield quality. The use of the RC showed a great potential in enhancing soil fertility. Our study suggests the suitability in organic farming of properly matching management of ASC and fertilisation strategies on melon crop. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Crop produce maximum yield at optimum fertiliser level. Excess nutrient in soil limits germination, growth and yield. Efficient use of manure requires persistent development to enable recommendation for its safe application rate. To this end, this research evaluated the effect of salinity from different application rates of manure on yield of vegetables. Green house and laboratory assays were used for vegetable growth and the determination of electrical conductivity (EC), respectively. Salinity effect on plant growth occurred to be a function of manure type. Optimum salinity level of poultry manure ranged from 15.6 to 21.8 mS m-1 EC. For goat manure, optimum EC ranged from 29.1 to 59.2 mS m-1. For cattle manure, EC was about 42.3 mS m-1 but for Chinese cabbage, the highest biomass was obtained at the highest EC of 47.4 mS m-1. Salinity differed considerably among manures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Cow and chicken dung both inhibit An. arabiensis oviposition. • Increased concentrations of cow and chicken dung result in greater oviposition inhibition. • Comparatively, An. arabiensis is more likely to lay eggs in cow dung polluted sites than chicken dung. • Egg retention is not displayed by An. arabiensis when exposed to cow or chicken dung in two choice or no choice oviposition assays. The rice agroecosystem provides suitable breeding habitat for many malaria vector species, and rice-adjacent communities are consequently exposed to a greater malaria transmission risk than non-rice-associated communities. As part of efforts to expand rice production in Africa, sustainable and climate-adapted practices such as the System of Rice Intensification (SRI) are being promoted. SRI encourages the use of organic fertilisers (OFs) such as cow and chicken dung, as opposed to inorganic industrially produced fertilisers, due to their lower resource cost, apparent benefit to the rice agroecosystem and as a means to reduce the greenhouse gas emissions associated with the production of industrial fertilisers. However, the impact of OFs on mosquito fauna is not well documented and may have knock-on consequences on malaria transmission risk. Here, we demonstrate, using dual choice egg count assays, that both cow and chicken dung modulate the oviposition behaviour of Anopheles arabiensis , a major malaria vector in Sub-Saharan Africa. A significantly reduced proportion of eggs were laid in water treated with either cow or chicken dung compared to untreated water, with higher dung concentrations resulting in further reduced proportions. When presented in competition, significantly fewer eggs were laid in water treated with chicken dung than with cow dung. Moreover, there was no evidence of egg retention in any experiment, including in no-choice experiments where only dung-containing dishes were available. These results suggest both cow and chicken dung may act as oviposition deterrents to malaria vector species and that the application of manure-based OFs in rice agriculture may modulate the oviposition behaviour of An. gambiae s.l. within agroecosystems. Quantification of the ammonia present in dung-infused water showed higher concentrations were present in the chicken dung infusion, which may be one contributing factor to the difference in observed deterrence between the two dung types. Deterrence of mosquito oviposition in OF-treated farms may potentially affect the overall production of malaria vectors within rice fields and their contribution to local malaria transmission. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Organic matter balance in the farms located in Ústí nad Orlicí district has been investigated since 1979. As a result, so called need of organic fertilisation, has been determined and the supply of the organic fertilisers to soils, e.g. farmyard manure, slurries and also straw and green manure has been monitored over the whole time period. About 45 % of the arable land area in the district has been monitored.In addition to the organic matter balance, we determined several soil organic matter characteristics in soil samples (organic C, N and S contents, inert and decomposable C content, hot water soluble C content, hydrophobicity index calculated from the DRIFT spectrometry, available P, K, Ca and Mg contents and pH).The relationships between the organic matter supply with supplemental sources organic fertilisers and all the selected soil organic matter characteristics were statistically significant. Significant correlations were also found for the relationships between the organic matter need and all the selected soil organic matter characteristics.

We performed 28-day mesophilic fermentation of a mixture of pig slurry and primary (raw) sludge from the sedimentation stage of a wastewater treatment plant at a 1:1 ratio. The components and the original and fermented mixture of slurry and sludge were subjected to acid hydrolysis. Dry matter of the solid phase of both components and both mixtures was incubated with sandy-loamy Cambisol at a weight ratio 3:1 at 25°C for 20 weeks; in 14-day intervals lipids, crude protein, hemicelluloses, cellulose, lignin, total nitrogen and hot-water-insoluble solids were determined. Changes in ion-exchange and buffering capacity of the test materials were recorded. Labile organic matters were determined after 20 weeks of incubation. Liquid fractions of both components and their mixtures were analysed before and after anaerobic fermentation. It was concluded that beneficial effects of wastes as fertilisers from anaerobic digestion could be attributed to their liquid fraction. After anaerobic digestion the solid fraction of these wastes has relatively increased ion exchange capacity as well as buffering capacity but it is very stable, hardly degradable organic matter, and therefore it cannot play the role of organic matter in soil. This is the reason why it should not be considered as an organic fertiliser.

This paper is a synthesis of long-term investigations based on the effect of different (mineral and organic fertilisers, heavy metals, contaminated irrigation water, nitrification inhibitor and detergents) on the dynamics of soil fungi number. The investigations were performed at the Microbiology Department and trial fields of the Faculty of Agronomy in Cacak on smonitza and alluvium soils in field and greenhouse conditions. Maize, wheat, barley and red clover were used as test plants in these studies. The quantitative composition of the fungi in the soils investigated was determined by the Czapek selective agar dilution method. The study results show that the number of soil fungi was dependent on the type and rate of agrochemicals used, on the growing season and the soil zone the samples were taken from for the analysis. Lower nitrogen fertiliser rates (80 and 120 kg?ha-1) and organic fertilisers stimulated the development of soil fungi, unlike the rate of 150 kg?ha- 1. Heavy metals, mercury and cadmium in particular, as well as high rates of the N-serve nitrification inhibitor inhibited the development of this group of soil microorganisms. Generally, the adverse effect of contaminated irrigation water on the soil fungi was recorded in both soil types, and particularly in the smonitza under red clover. Low detergent (Meril) concentrations did not have any significant effect on this group of microorganisms. In this respect, it can be concluded that the soil fungi number dynamics can be used in monitoring soils polluted by different toxinogenic substances.

Frisol forte (FR F) and Frisol active (FR A) are slow-acting organic fertilisers recommended for reclamation and revitalisation of undeveloped soils and degraded areas. Tentative results of experiments carried out with these products on spoil banks in the CR showed controversial reactions of plants - on the one hand a high mortality of seedlings and a very good growth on the other. Reasons for these disproportions projecting themselves into the welfare of woody plants probably lie in an incorrect dosage of products. Thus, a special long-term experiment was established with the objective to find an optimal dosing to be used in practice for the reclamation process on spoil banks. By the method of measuring and statistical evaluation of height and stem diameter growths it was discovered that the best results were achieved by the combined use of both products with a dosage in the range of 30-60 g FR F + 250 ml FR A/5 l of water/10 seedlings. The discovered dosage is lower than that indicated by the manufacturer and literature. The application of granulated FR F alone was not so effective. The best dosage in this case was also 60 g/seedling. A disadvantage of using the combination of both types of Frisol is that the water required for dissolving the FR A liquid concentrate is not always available in the location being reforested.

This paper is a synthesis of long-term investigations based on the effect of different authropogenic pollutants (mineral and organic fertilizers, heavy metals, contaminated irrigation water, nitrification inhibitor and detergents) on the dynamics of soil fungi number. The investigations were performed at the Microbiology Department and trial fields of the Faculty of Agronomy in Čačak on smonitza and alluvium soils in field and under greenhouse conditions. Maize, wheat, barley and red clover were used as test plants in these studies. The quantitative composition of the fungi in the soils investigated was determined by the Čapek selective agar dilution method. The study results show that the number of soil fungi was dependent on the type and rate of agrochemicals used, on the growing season, and the soil zone the samples were taken from for the analysis. Lower nitrogen fertiliser rates (80 and 120 kg x ha-1) and organic fertilizers stimulated the development of soil fungi, unlike the rate of 150 kg x ha-1. Heavy metals, mercury and cadmium in particular, as well as high rates of the N-serve nitrification inhibitor, inhibited the development of this group of soil microorganisms. Generally, the adverse effect of contaminated irrigation water on the soil fungi was recorded in both soil types, and particularly in the smonitza under red clover. Low detergent (Meril) concentrations did not have any significant effect on this group of microorganisms. In this respect, it can be concluded that the soil fungi number dynamics can be used in monitoring soils polluted by different toxinogenic substances.

The knowledge of nutrient aspects of organic fertilisers is of much relevance in assessing their availability and long-term effect to the soil and crop and in formulating sound fertiliser recommendation. Around 619 organic fertiliser samples under different categories, which were received by the analytical laboratory of UPASI Tea Research Institute, Valparai, were examined for their nutrient status. The trend in the number of samples received every year for the past 5 years showed that there is a gradual, steady and linear increase in the number of samples received by the laboratory which, in turn, authenticates the increase in the production and utilisation of organic fertilisers in agricultural sector. This also reveals the awareness of organic farming among farmers in recent times. The organic fertilisers received by the laboratory were categorised into different groups based on their nomenclature. The number of samples received each year under different categories varies to a larger extent. The nutritional status was unpredictable based on the nomenclature of the sample received. In addition to this frequency distribution, the nutritional values analysed are discussed in this paper. Correlation matrix was worked out between all the parameters estimated. It is evident that if maintenance of proper carbon-to-nitrogen ratio and moisture content is ascertained in the finished product, one can guarantee the quality of the organic fertiliser in terms of nutrient content. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In sustainable agricultural systems, intercropping using living mulches (LM) provides many beneficial ecosystem services. The objective of these two-year field experiments was to study the suitability of different LM options of burr medic (Medicago polymorpha L. var. anglona) for organic cauliflower (Brassica oleracea L.) cultivation in two sites under Mediterranean conditions. In central Italy (Experiment 1) contemporary and delayed (to crop) sowings of LM were compared with a no-cover crop treatment, contrasting two local cauliflower cultivars and a F1 Hybrid. In southern Italy (Experiment 2) the sustainability of systems combining LM (anticipated and contemporary sowing compared with no-cover) and organic fertilisation strategies was assessed. The aboveground biomasses dry weights of cauliflower crop (heads and residues), burr medic and weeds were separately determined. Results suggested that in Experiment 1 the LM was not able to smother weeds establishment and growth, as a consequence of early sowing, while cauliflower yield was reduced. Moreover, the genotypes behaviour was greatly influenced by the LM sowing times. In Experiment 2, irrespective of the agronomic practices applied, climatic conditions notably influenced cauliflower cultivation and also reduced the mean yield. Therefore, the recorded differences between the two experimental sites highlighted the need to tailor the LM strategies to the different environmental conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study assesses the efficiency of sugar-based ethanol production in Mauritius using the net energy balance and energy ratio. The findings indicate a positive net energy balance. For every one unit of fossil fuel used, the system returns more than six times in terms of renewable energy from ethanol. The fuel savings and other economic benefits which may be accrued to Mauritius are discussed. The sensitivity analysis shows that the fossil energy consumed in the production of fertilisers and in the transportation of feedstock to factory represents the main components which influence efficiency indicators. Greening the supply chain may enhance the efficiency and sustainability of bio-ethanol production systems. Green strategies may include the use of organic fertilisers, clean technology, and sustainable transportation and land use. The efficiency indicators can also be used to guide the CDM for sugar-based ethanol project. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The efficiency of four different organic fertilisers applied to winter oilseed rape, before (early) or at the beginning of regrowth in spring (normal application time), was studied in two row spacing systems of 12 and 48 cm with inter row hoeing to provide strategies to optimise spring nitrogen (N) fertilisation to organic winter oilseed rape. Six annual field experiments were performed during 2005–2008 in south central Sweden. The following amendments, i.e., Vinass from yeast production, Biofer meat and bone meal, dairy slurry and chicken manure, were applied at a rate corresponding to 100 kg N ha −1. Crop N uptake, seed yield and oil content indicated greater and earlier N availability of Vinass after application compared with the other amendments. Yield increased by 1,300 kg ha −1 at early spring application (27 March) of Vinass and by 700 kg ha −1 when applied at normal application time (18–26 April). The yield increase was 400 kg ha −1 regardless of application time of Biofer, chicken manure and dairy slurry. The substantially greater yield increase in the Vinass application in relation to the other fertilisers demonstrated the yield potential when N is available earlier. The smaller effect on the yield by the other organic amendments indicated that the N release was not synchronised with the crop demand, and available too late during crop development to affect yield or less N was available due to N losses. Consequently, only Vinass can be recommended for spring application. The two row spacing systems tested can both be recommended, since yield levels were similar. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soil fertility management in organic systems, regulated by the organic standards, should seek to build healthy, fertile soils and reduce reliance on external inputs. The use of nutrients from conventional sources, such as animal manures from conventional farms, is currently permitted, with restrictions, in the organic regulations. However, the reliance of organic agriculture on the conventional system is considered problematic. In light of this, the organic sector in Denmark has recently decided to gradually phase out, and ultimately ban, the use of conventional manures and straws in organic agriculture in Denmark. Core focal areas for phasing out conventional nutrients are as follows: (1) amendments to crop selection and rotations, (2) alternative nutrient sources (organic wastes) and (3) increased cooperation between organic livestock and arable farmers. Using Denmark as a case, this article discusses the background and implications of the strategy to phase out conventional manure and straw, and explores possible solutions to the challenge of ensuring a sustainable nutrient supply to organic systems. Alternative strategies to ensure nutrient supply will require a tapestry of small solutions. One element of this tapestry is to review the volume and type of nutrient sources available in alternative, non-farm organic waste streams and consider their suitability for use in organic systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We studied the impact of added biochar on the N mineralisation dynamics of two organic fertilisers by incubating loamy sand soil for 133 days in controlled conditions. Biochar made from softwood chips was added to soil at 0, 4·6, 9·1 and 13·6 g kg–1 soil dry matter (DM) either alone, or in combination with meat bone meal (MBM) and composted cattle manure (CCM) fertilisers. Soil mineral N concentration was determined on days 0, 14, 28, 56, 84 and 133. Net N mineralisation in the MBM treatment was much larger than in the CCM or the unfertilised treatments. Constant soil moisture during the incubation provided suitable aerobic soil conditions for nitrification: after day 14, soil mineral N was dominated by nitrate in all treatments. Biochar additions decreased the mineral N concentrations in all treatments, probably because of immobilisation by microbes. In unfertilised soil, the immobilisation by biochar increased steadily with application rate and time, but in the MBM and CCM treatments, it started to decrease or level off after two months, possibly due to the turnover of microbial biomass. The main biochar-induced impacts on soil N mineralisation dynamics could be modelled by using standard and confined exponential models. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Biodegradable waste is by definition degraded by other living organisms. Every day, meat industry produces large amounts of a specific type of biodegradable waste called slaughterhouse waste. Traditionally in Europe, this waste is recycled in rendering plants which produce meat and bone meal and fat. However, feeding animals with meat and bone meal has been banned since the outbreaks of bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE). In consequence, new slaughterhouse waste processing technologies have been developed, and animal wastes have now been used for energy production. Certain parts of this waste, such as brains and spinal cord, are deemed high-risk substances, because they may be infected with prions. Their treatment is therefore possible only in strictly controlled conditions. One of the methods which seems to bear acceptable health risk is alkaline hydrolysis. This paper presents the results of an alkaline hydrolysis efficiency study. It also proposes reuse of the obtained material as organic fertiliser, as is suggested by the analytical comparison between meat and bone meal and hydrolysate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]