Author(s)

J. A. Pascual, M. Ros, P. Fernandez, A. Bernal & A. Lacasa

Abstract

Composting is a traditional method of waste treatment that means a stabilization of organic matter to be applied to soil. Compost is used in soils as organic amendments but it is necessary to find new properties for compost to increase its value. One research field that is increasing is its potential use to control plant pathogens, giving an important value as biofertilizers and biopesticides in ecological agriculture where no chemicals can be used. Our research is focused on the potential action of compost as an alternative to chemical disinfection with methyl bromide by biofumigation-solarization (application of fresh compost to soil covering with a plastic, and leaving to raise soil temperature); it is also shown that the green compost controls fusiarosis wilt on melon plants, demonstrating that the effect is caused by biotic and abiotic factors. Future trends are also commented, where it is necessary to delve into the potential uses of compost because it is necessary to develop new demands to open markets for compost, demonstrating their beneficial effects on many aspects such as biofertilizers, biopesticides, etc. Keywords: biofertilizers, biopesticide, composting process, biofumigation, solarization, plant pathogens. 1 Present and future of compost The European Community policy is to reach the zero waste and this is obliging to reutilize the different wastes. The organic waste has to be reutilized by their use in agriculture, converting it from waste to resource. The most important pool of organic waste are from agriculture (80%) and the urban life (10%). The organic matter from different waste can be used as organic amendments but it is necessary to stabilize them by composting process. The composting process is a

Keywords

biofertilizers, biopesticide, composting process, biofumigation, solarization, plant pathogens.