The focus of this study is on the following traits and their content in organic fertilisers: pH, EC, enzymes, C-%, C-fractions, C/N ratio, hydrophilic/hydrophobic, bacteria, fungi and oxygen requirement.
I am searching for knowledge and data on the following subjects:
1) What ranges of traits in organic fertilisers are known?
2) To what extent is decomposition of organic fertilisers in soil affected by the mentioned traits?;
3) What is known about possible interactions between traits and the effect of interactions on decomposition of organic fertilisers?
The main focus is on organic fertilisers regarding mineral concentrates, digestate, liquid and solid manures and compost. Information about other types of organic fertilisers is of course appreciated.
Maybe carbon amount is one trait as it became dynamic through time
The biggest issue related to organic fertilizer is their slow time of efficacious. The ability for organic fertilizers to be accepted by farmers is a need for more rapid action to mimic the synthetic fertilizer they are well accustomed to. In addition, the high concentration is needed in order to reduce the transportation costs. Nutrient concentration and solubility are the keys in my mind.
Carbon to Nitrogen Ratio (C:N) is the main factor of mineralization..
20:1 is bench mark for decomposition or mineralization. Decrease from 20:1 decomposition proceeded and increase fro 20:1 immobilization proceeded.
I agree with Dr. Hepperly. In addition, the source feedstock of the organic fertilizer and its finish are also variables in decomposition characteristics. Raw materials such as manures may contain substantial amounts of easily decomposable materials. However, as it is composted, the readily decomposable materials disppear and more resistant materials come to dominate the composting process. Essentially, the composting process continues until the material exists as highly humified material that is very resistant to decomposition (similar to SOM). So, how far it is along in the composting process can also be a characteristic.
Important traits of organic fertilizer to determine complete decomposition is C:N ratio (
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