Production of tomato seedlings on composts of vine branches and grape prunings, husks and seeds

Compost mixtures and composts from vine branches and grape prunings, husks and seeds were studied to evaluate their possibility of substituting the conventional peat mixture for tomato seedling production. Specific respiration rate (CO2/biomass C ratio) and intensity of nitrification appear to be reliable criteria for compost stability. Compost mixtures and composts showed better agrochemical properties than the peat mixture, resulting in increased plant growth. It was found that tomato seedlings on compost mixtures and composts had a higher dry matter content, total mass, length and diameter of stems and number of leaves. They were ready to be transplanted four to five days earlier than plants grown on peat mixture. The results clearly indicate that peat mixture can be substituted by compost mixtures and composts. Furthermore, they have a better economic value.