Summary
This laboratory study assessed 14 plant species as potential bioassay indicators for compost quality and maturity. Cress, the traditionally used assay plant, was found to be less sensitive than several alternatives, particularly Amaranthus tricolor and Chinese cabbage. The authors concluded that Amaranthus tricolor shows promise as a sensitive compost maturity indicator owing to its binary germination response and reduced root growth in immature compost, though further validation is needed.
Regional applicability
The methodology is universally applicable to compost quality assessment; the findings are independent of geography and could improve compost characterisation practices in UK waste management and organic farming systems. UK compost producers and certification schemes could consider adopting more sensitive bioassay species to strengthen quality standards.
Key measures
Seed germination rates, germination index, root growth, and response to compost extract concentrations across 14 plant species
Outcomes reported
The study evaluated 14 seed-propagated plant species as bioassay indicators for compost maturity, comparing their sensitivity to distinguish between mature and immature composts. Amaranthus tricolor and Chinese cabbage were identified as more sensitive indicators than the commonly used cress.
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