LABORATORY SERVICES
EcoSci offers a wide range of tests for composting including feedstock and finished compost. Materials from both open windrow and in-vessel composting systems can be tested. Tests include; nutrients, physical tests, metals and microbial populations. We can also determine the ability of compost to suppress plant diseases.
In addition to this, built on 15 years of experience in the composting industry, we can offer an interpretation of the results of analyses. For example, tests of potential feedstock can be used to calculate the optimal type and amount of amendment material.
EcoSci also offer analysis of soils for key nutrients and metals. These can be used to determine compost and fertiliser requirements for future cropping
Typical Compost Analysis
- Basic: Moisture, Conductivity, pH
- Nutrient: Nitrogen, Nitrate, Phosphate, Potassium, Sulphate
- Trace Elements: Copper, Zinc, Magnesium, Manganese
- Metals: Cadmium, Chromium, Nickel
Many other tests are available
On-site soil sampling and laboratory analysis
EcoSci can quote for any combination of tests from a one-off individual parameter to complex suites. We will also arrange for sampling and collection of samples if required. Please contact us to discuss how our team of scientists can assist you.
Disease Suppression
EcoSci has investigated the potential for using compost as a means of suppressing common plant diseases. Working in conjunction with the Plant Sciences Department of Exeter University, largely funded through SMART awards, it was demonstrated through a series of trials that the application of substantial amounts of compost significantly inhibited a range of common plant diseases caused by soil-borne pathogens. Further work has been carried out to investigate the potential for sprays derived from compost to combat foliar disease. Beneficial effects were demonstrated, although these were more difficult to quantify.
Methods of detecting suppressive organisms in compost have been investigated and a test can be carried out. See link below.
BIO-REMEDIATION
Trials carried out for the Environment Agency indicated that compost served as an excellent carrier for micro-organisms that break down hydrocarbons, making it possible to remediate contaminated soils through composting.
Eel Grass Composting, Kefalonia, Greece
For the last eight years EcoSci have worked with a Greek Organisation on composting Eel Grass with other organic materials to produce a soil improver. The Eel Grass is collected from the beaches in order to allow turtles to nest. Composting has turned a potentially costly waste material into a valuable resource.
http://www.compost.gr/english/about.html
Bicton College Of Horticulture
EcoSci have worked with students exploring the optimum proportion of green waste compost to blend with other materials to produce a growing medium. Further trials will be carried out in 2007 looking at the performance of green waste compost as a growing-on medium.
SPORTS TURF RESEARCH
Research into application of composted green waste to various sports turfs carried out in conjunction with Sports Turf Research Institute. Work was funded by WRAP (Waste Resources Action Programme) Trials showed many benefits for compost application over traditional fertiliser treatments.