Agricultural use of compost under different irrigation strategies in a hedgerow olive grove under Mediterranean conditions – a comparison with traditional systems

Abstract. Soil and water-efficient management are key factors in ensuring the olive sector's sustainable production practices. The use of compost based on waste (alperujo) as fertilizer could enhance ecosystem services while need to transition a zero-waste approach circular economy is achieved. present work includes comparative study effect alperujo (AC) vs. inorganic fertilization under different systems: traditional adult grove rainfed conditions young hedgerow system, which factorial test tree irrigation regimes (full, deficit no irrigation) implemented well. At plots, addition AC soil sampling time greatly impacted chemical parameters and, lesser extent, enzymatic activities, whereas did not exert marked influence. In proved be an efficient tool for carbon sequestration. first revealed clear stoichiometric relationship between organic matter (SOM) nitrogen, phosphorus potassium (NPK) contents both systems, correlations were weak scarce second at plots. This fact was related decay effect. Compost combination with tended trigger certain priming native SOM since stocks reduced 6 % 38 from one other depending intensity. However, caused less intense reduction essential nutrients representing best alternative maximizing agronomic effects water-saving strategy. Recurrent application would necessary maintain quality, especially high densities. combined toward water conservation