Compost Comparison in High Tunnels

Compost is frequently used in market garden production systems, both in the field and in high tunnels. Reasons for using compost include as a mulch for weed control, as a soil amendment to increase organic matter and biological activity, suppress plant disease, and/or supply mineral nutrients for the crop. Local sources of compost are desirable in order to minimize transport cost and promote recycling of nutrients within a region. Growers report varying experience with locally available composts. This trial was conducted to evaluate four composts for use in high tunnel tomato production, with primary emphasis on their value as sources of macronutrients. The results reported here document effects of the composts on tomato yield, leaf tissue nutrient concentrations, and soil nutrients at the end of the growing season.