Recycling nutrient-rich hop leaves by composting with wheat straw and farmyard manure in suitable mixtures

The harvesting of hops (Humulus lupulus L.) generates large amounts nutrient-rich leaves that can be used in composting mixtures to add value other organic resources on the farm. In this study, hop were mixed with cow manure and wheat straw several combinations aim establishing guidelines how farmers manage raw materials better use these valuable resources. process was monitored quality composts evaluated relation effects lettuce (Lactuca sativa grown pots over two consecutive cycles. mixture produced a stable compost after nine months which may horticultural crops, irrespective proportion materials, due their low similar C/N ratios. However, when using proportions less than 2:1, did not mature properly, showing high Their application soil led strong reduction plant tissue N concentrations, biological immobilization, significantly reduced dry matter yield. Thus, reduce time increase compost, ratio leaves/straw should as possible, at least 2:1. Alternatively, either take longer, or poorly-matured applied far advance sowing crop so complementary processes place soil, recorded second cycle lettuce. Ash from stems benefit proved itself worth mixtures.