The benefits of using lobster processing waste as a soil amendment in organic potato production

R. D. Peters^1*, A. V. Sturz² and J. A. MacLeod¹

Studies were undertaken in Prince Edward Island to determine the suitability of raw and composted lobster processing waste as soil amendments in organic potato production. Field trials included plot treatments of raw or composted lobster waste applied in-furrow or broadcast on the plot surface and incorporated. Control plots received synthetic fertilizer (15-15-15). Chlorophyll meter readings for plants in plots receiving raw lobster waste were similar or higher than those receiving synthetic fertilizer.

Yields from plots receiving raw lobster waste as a broadcast application were similar to those receiving synthetic fertilizer (in-furrow or broadcast) and significantly (P=0.05) greater than yields from plots receiving compost (in-furrow or broadcast). Tubers from plots receiving raw lobster waste had significantly (P=0.05) higher levels of calcium than tubers from other plots. Stem and stolon canker and black scurf severity were often significantly (P=0.05) reduced by application of raw lobster waste. Counts of microorganisms on chitin-amended media indicated that the numbers of chitinolytic bacteria and fungi were significantly (P=0.05) higher in soils in plots receiving raw or composted lobster waste than those receiving synthetic fertilizer. Raw lobster waste may be useful as an organic amendment for crop nutrition and disease reduction.

Full Presentation


Source
2006 Guelph Organic Conference, Natural Sciences Symposium


Author Locations & Affiliations
(1) Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Crops and Livestock Research Centre, 440 University Ave., Charlottetown, PE Canada C1A 4N6
(2) Prince Edward Island Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Aquaculture, Plant Health Research & Diagnostics, P.O. Box 1600, Charlottetown, PE Canada C1A 7N3
Corresponding author: Rick Peters PetersR@AGR.GC.CA


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