Evaluation of Compost and Biochar as Partial Substitutes of Peat in Growing Media and Their Influence in Microbial Counts, Enzyme Activity and Lactuca sativa L. Seedling Growth

The main organic input for the elaboration of growing media is peat (Sphagnum spp.), due to its physical and chemical characteristics. However, mining this material creates a considerable impact in local ecosystems from which obtained, along with global because emission greenhouse gasses. Thus, sustainable materials that can replace, or reduce use peat, while maintaining improving attributes plant growth, are greatly needed. Therefore, work aims evaluate effects different proportions compost biochar on biological characteristics (Lactuca sativa L.) seedling growth prior transplanting. Out variables evaluated, β-glucosidase activity showed greatest results based 80% 70% 5% biochar. Moreover, combination compost, maintained most Lactuca L. (Oak Leaf variety) traits obtained only peat. These findings emphasize need further investigate conditions alternative pay attention feedstock initial processing order obtain high quality inputs optimum media.