The specific objective of this experiment is to evaluate the uptake of plant nutrients (N, P and K)from bio-based fertilizersfrom fish and aquaculture by-products. Based on the results of pot tests, 5̶6 promising bio-based fertilizers will be selected for further field trials.
Bio-based products can significantly contribute to plant nutrition. However, their effects are not always as predictable as those of mineral fertilizers. The new bio-based fertilizers from fish processing and aquaculture byproducts developed in WP3 and WP4 are tested under controlled conditions. Pot trials will be set up in greenhouse conditions to determine the fraction of N, P and K from bio-based fertilizers that plants can uptake. Chemical analyzes of bio-based fertilizers by UGENT are performed before pot testing. ECRI will carry out pot experiments to measure N effect, FIBL-CH will carry out pot experiments on P and K effects. The amount of nutrients (N, P and K) available to the plant is estimated using bio-based fertilizers in an amount that ensures an optimal supply of nutrients if all were available. All other macro- and micro nutrients except N, P and K are added in sufficient quantities for optimal plantgrowth. Nutrients uptake from bio-based fertilizers is compared to unfertilized control and treatment with mineral fertilizers, where nutrients are assumed to be 100% available.
Fig 1: Pot experiment with Italian ryegrass (Lolium multifolrumL.) grown in the climate chamber for three weeks.) (FiBL-CH).
Fig 2: Pot experiment with spring wheat (Triticum aestivumL.) (NIBIO)
Authors: LiinaEdesiand TiinaTalve, Estonian Crop Research Institute
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