Nitrogen And Phosphorous Dynamics In Cocomposted Yard Trimmings And Broiler Litter

Total phosphorus, water-soluble phosphorus and total nitrogen concentrations in cocomposted yard trimmings and broiler litter were quantified in a 2 m wide × 1 m deep × 55 m long channel composter using batch mixing. The batch mixing occurred by using a rotor tiller type turner mounted on rails for the length of the composting channel. Phosphorus and nitrogen concentrations of the compost were measured as they varied with treatment and time during a 63 day compost process followed by a 30 day curing time. The treatments contained a single mix of 50% yard trimmings, 50% poultry litter, by volume, using four aeration and turning treatments. The first treatment was a control, which received no turning or aeration unless the moisture content dropped to 40% and additional water was added to bring the mix up to 50-55% moisture, mix consolidation was required, or mixing to obtain accurate samples and moisture contents, as necessary. Both treatments two and three were aerated by negative pressure ventilation. Tre...