Compost as Peat Substitute in Olive Cutting Media

Abstract

The possibility of replacement compost as peat moss in olive propagation media (PM) and it's impact on growth was investigated during both 2013 and 2014 seasons. Semi-hardwood stems cuttings of Coratina olive cultivar prepared in April and August of both seasons. The basal portion of each cutting was immersed 4000 ppm indole butyric acid before planting. Propagation media (Treatments) consist of: sphagnum peat-moss: sand in one ratio (1:3) as a control and plant composting: sand

Biochar as a Possible New Alternative in the Propagation Medium of Olive Cuttings

“…The cost and accessibility of medium components should be considered when selecting a rooting medium (Hartmann et al, 2007), quality (particle size, freedom from salt, weed and diseases and that pH), physical structure (ability to support the cutting, easy sticking of the cuttings), adequate aeration, mixing -the ability to be easily mixed, and standardization (FAO TECA, 2011). Since peat moss is regarded as one of the primary components in the medium of propagation of olive cuttings, in addition to the use of compost as an alternative to it (Abdel-Mohsen, 2015).…”