Compost Mixture and Composting Technique Influence Compost Organic Matter Evolution

This study examined the effects of compost mixtures and composting techniques on dissolved organic matter evolution involving three compost mixtures and two techniques. Compost maturity was evaluated using E 4 /E 6 , C/N ratio and germination index. Spectral technologies measured dissolved organic matter evolution. Overall results suggest that pig manure-based mixtures and windrow composting produced preferred results and that cabbage was the preferred additive. Dissolved organic matter component ratio in compost were affected by compost constituents. Composting technique affected compost evolutionary rates. Protein, sugar, humic acid, and aromatics evolution closely paralled compost maturity. Maturation was mediated by pile temperature, pH, moisture content, and NH 4 + -N content. Results suggest that dissolved organic matter evolutionary processes are important predictors of compost maturity and quality. Therefore, dissolved organic matter evolution is a useful measure for evaluating compost maturity.