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Effects of Sewage Sludge Compost and Vermicompost on Wheat Yield and Vitality

Author

Listed:
  • Milan Hrčka

    (Department of Agroenvironmental Chemistry and Plant Nutrition, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Kamycka 129, 165 21 Prague, Czech Republic)

  • Kamil Kraus

    (Department of Botany and Plant Physiology, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Kamycka 129, 165 21 Prague, Czech Republic)

  • Tereza Hřebečková

    (Department of Agroenvironmental Chemistry and Plant Nutrition, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Kamycka 129, 165 21 Prague, Czech Republic)

  • Barbora Tunklová

    (Department of Botany and Plant Physiology, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Kamycka 129, 165 21 Prague, Czech Republic)

  • Jan Kubeš

    (Department of Botany and Plant Physiology, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Kamycka 129, 165 21 Prague, Czech Republic)

  • Aleš Hanč

    (Department of Agroenvironmental Chemistry and Plant Nutrition, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Kamycka 129, 165 21 Prague, Czech Republic)

Abstract

This study investigates the effects of compost and vermicompost derived from sewage sludge and moulded pulp on wheat yield, nutrient uptake, photosynthetic activity, and drought resistance. Optimal weather conditions in March facilitated timely wheat sowing, contributing to ideal yields, while subsequent higher temperatures and rainfall influenced grain formation and weight. The experiment demonstrated that vermicompost significantly enhances plant physiological and yield parameters, including photosynthetic activity, chlorophyll content, and water use efficiency. Fertilized variants exhibited improved soil properties, leading to higher grain and straw yields compared to the control. Macronutrient uptake was notably higher in vermicompost-treated variants, with variant VI showing the highest values. Enhanced photosynthetic activity and drought resistance were observed in fertilized variants, attributed to better stomatal regulation and osmotic adjustment under stress conditions. The study underscores the role of vermicompost in promoting sustainable agriculture by improving nutrient availability, soil structure, and plant resilience. These findings suggest that compost and especially vermicompost applications can effectively enhance wheat productivity and resilience, offering a sustainable approach to improving crop performance under varying environmental conditions.

Suggested Citation

  • Milan Hrčka & Kamil Kraus & Tereza Hřebečková & Barbora Tunklová & Jan Kubeš & Aleš Hanč, 2025. "Effects of Sewage Sludge Compost and Vermicompost on Wheat Yield and Vitality," Agriculture, MDPI, vol. 15(5), pages 1-24, March.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jagris:v:15:y:2025:i:5:p:551-:d:1605332
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. A. Madani & A.H. Makarem & F. Vazin & M. Joudi, 2012. "The impact of post-anthesis nitrogen and water availability on yield formation of winter wheat," Plant, Soil and Environment, Czech Academy of Agricultural Sciences, vol. 58(1), pages 9-14.
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