Corroboration for the successful application of humified olive mill waste compost in soilless cultivation of strawberry

The findings presented in this paper have shown conclusively that composted olive mill waste (COMW), characterized by its relatively high humus content, contributed to producing an economically sustainable and fit-for-purpose growing medium for soilless cultivation of strawberries. In so doing, it has also shown to be a successful replacement for the commonly used and expensive peat moss. The capacity of COMW to transport nutrients essential for the growth of different varieties of strawberries was indicated by the optimum levels of nutrients such as N, K, Ca, Mg, Na, Fe, Mn, Zn and Cu recorded in petioles and leaf blades. The relatively high amount of nutrients left over in the substrate at the end of cultivation meant that it can be recycled as organic matter in different agricultural practices. (C) 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.