| Article ID | Journal | Published Year | Pages | File Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 680592 | Bioresource Technology | 2014 | 5 Pages |
•Earthworms were able to convert apple pomace waste into a value added product.•The addition of straw to apple pomace did not enhance earthworm biomass.•The resulting vermicomposts were characterized by slightly acidic to neutral pH.•The total content of nutrients increased during vermicomposting.
The present work was focused on vermicomposting apple pomace waste and its mixtures with straw in volume proportions of 25%, 50%, and 75%. The feasibility was evaluated on the basis of agrochemical properties and earthworm biomass. Vermicomposting was able to reduce the weight and volume of the feedstock by 65% and 85%, respectively. The resulting vermicomposts were characterized by slightly acidic to neutral pH (5.9–6.9), and optimal EC (1.6–4.4 mS/cm) and C:N ratios (13–14). The total content of nutrients increased during vermicomposting for all of the treatments with the following average final values: N = 2.8%, P = 0.85%, K = 2.3%, and Mg = 0.38%. The addition of straw to apple pomace did not enhance earthworm biomass, but did increase the available content of nutrients during vermicomposting. The data reveals that vermicomposting is a suitable technology for the decomposition of apple pomace waste into a value added product.
