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[Sewage sludge as fertilizer for grassland]
Tao Chen1, Xin Wang, Renlu Liang
1Institute of Applied Ecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenyang 110016.
Ying Yong Sheng Tai Xue Bao = the Journal of Applied Ecology
|September 12, 2002
Summary
Composted sewage sludge effectively fertilizes Zoysia japonica, improving soil nutrients and biomass. Application rates are safe for soil cadmium and groundwater nitrate levels.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Soil Science
- Agronomy
Context:
- Sewage sludge is a potential source of nutrients for plant growth.
- Sustainable land management requires effective waste utilization.
- Zoysia japonica is a common turfgrass species.
Purpose:
- To evaluate the efficacy and safety of using composted sewage sludge as fertilizer for Zoysia japonica.
- To determine the impact of sewage sludge application on soil properties and turfgrass growth.
- To assess potential environmental risks associated with heavy metal accumulation and nutrient leaching.
Summary:
- Composted sewage sludge application on Zoysia japonica resulted in soil cadmium levels below 0.3 mg.kg-1 with fertilizer rates under 45 t.hm-2 and soil pH below 6.5.
- Groundwater nitrate-nitrogen (NO3(-)-N) remained below the first-class standard of 10 mg.kg-1.
- Soil organic matter, available N, total N, and total P increased by 16%, 78%, 61%, and 140% respectively, compared to the control.
- Zoysia japonica biomass doubled compared to the control group.
Impact:
- Composted sewage sludge can be a valuable and sustainable fertilizer for grassland ecosystems.
- This approach enhances soil fertility and turfgrass productivity while managing waste.
- Safe application guidelines are crucial to mitigate potential environmental risks.