Potential use of olive oil solid waste in agriculture

Abstract

Olive (olea europea) orchards are dominant crops in Mediterranean countries. The main use of olive fruits is the extraction of olive oil. The remaining Olive oil solid waste (OSW) can be a good and available source for soil organic matter in Turkey. One method to use OSW in agricultural practices can be making compost. OSW and OSW compost were evaluated for agricultural use. Olive solid wastes were mixed with soil at the rates of 0, 3, 5 and 7% with and without additional nitrogen and phosphorous sources. Sunflower and corn plants were grown in the pots for two months. Additionally changes in soil physical and chemical properties were observed. Results showed that OSW compost can be used as and organic source for plant growth. This research was supported by TUB TAK TOVAG project number 106O371.