Nitrification of leachates from manure composting under field conditions and their use in horticulture

• Horticultural valorization of leachates from manure composting was studied.
• Feasibility of nitrifying leachates in summer and winter seasons was assessed.
• Use of nitrified effluents for lettuce fertigation was satisfactorily evaluated.
• Nutrient uptake must be particularly considered when cultivating edible crops.

This work aimed to demonstrate the feasibility of nitrification applied to the treatment of leachates formed during composting of cattle and pig manure in order to promote their further use as liquid fertilizer in horticulture. Nitrification trials were successfully conducted in summer and winter seasons under Mediterranean climate conditions. Subsequently, effect of using the nitrified effluents as nutritive solution in the fertigation of lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) was assessed in terms of productivity and nutrient uptake. Similar productivities were obtained when using the nitrified effluents and a standard nutritive solution. However, results also evidenced high nutrient uptake, which indicates that dosage should be adjusted to culture requirements.

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