Summary
This experimental study evaluated compost and vermicompost derived from vine pruning and sewage sludge as partial replacements for peat in cucumber seedling production. Incorporation of 10% vermicompost significantly enhanced germination, seedling vigour, and biomass whilst maintaining nutrient balance, demonstrating that low proportions of waste-derived vermicompost can effectively substitute for peat without compromising horticultural performance. Higher substitution rates (20–40%) disrupted nutrient balance and reduced seedling quality, suggesting an optimal application threshold for peat replacement in this crop.
UK applicability
The findings are directly applicable to UK horticulture, particularly in regions with established viticulture or access to wine-processing waste streams. The use of sewage sludge and agricultural by-products aligns with UK sustainability policy and circular economy principles, though practitioners should verify local regulatory approval for sludge-derived composts in food crop production.
Key measures
Germination percentage; seedling vigour indices; shoot and root biomass; leaf nutrient concentrations (Ca, K, P, Mg); growth efficiency indices; correlation and principal component analysis
Outcomes reported
The study measured germination rates, seedling vigour, biomass accumulation, growth efficiency indices, and leaf nutrient contents (calcium, potassium, phosphorus, magnesium) across five substrate treatments. Results demonstrated that 10% vermicompost incorporation significantly improved performance metrics comparable to or exceeding peat-perlite control, whilst higher proportions negatively affected seedling quality.
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