Effects of Mushroom Residue Compost on Growth and Nutrient Uptake of Pinus tabulaeformis Container Seedlings

ObjectiveThe agricultural waste-mushroom residue,which remains after the production of edible fungi,is widely available and cheap. And it is now gradually cognized as a potential alternative to the peat for seedling production. This study aimed to explore the mushroom residue compost as peat alternative substrate material for the feasibility of container seedlings and promote cyclic utilization of agricultural waste resources. MethodThis study was tested for feasibility as a component(0-75%) of a container medium for growing one-year-old Pinus tabulaeformis container seedlings in a greenhouse. The physical and chemical properties of different mediums and their effects on the growth of seedlings were studied. ResultWhen the proportions of mushroom residue compost reaching to 30%,seedling germination percentage could achieve 80% production index requirements; seedling height,diameter,shoot biomass,and foliar biomass all did not exhibit significant changes compared with the peat treatment. Root morphology(except