Application of Vermicompost and Compost made from Waste of Production Units Pleurotus ostreatus for Bioremediation of Soils with

Low Nutrient Content.

By Beatriz Velazquez Cruz

Abstract
This project was developed in order to find an alternative to minimize the use of chemical fertilizers and according with the socioeconomic necessities of farmers, that is, with economic feasibility. Also, it was reached the project objective which is to remediate a crop soil with low fertility using the composting. Comparing the different composts used in this test, it was observed that the best results were obtained of the compost sample made from waste production unit of Pleurotus ostreatus. For this reason is recommend the use of bio-fertilizers made from waste production unit of Pleurotus ostreatus which have excellent ability to degrade agricultural wastes and a high concentration of nutrients that presents the compost wastes (nitrogen, phosphorus, organic matter).

2. Methodology
The preparation of composting is done in three stages: a) sample obtaining of soil, b) production of vermicompost and c) the preparation of compost from Pleurotus.

a)

Soil sample obtaining.

Key Words: composting, Pleurotus ostreatus, biofertilizers.

The steps for soil samples obtaining are as follows: The first step is to perform a zigzag sampling along a line within the sampling area. Sample zigzag is realized picking a random starting point for defining the sample plane covering all the area. The sample is performed with a shovel to a depth of 30 cm. After, the sample of two kilograms of soil is placed in a plastic bag, and each sample is stored in a cooler. Finally the sample is transported to laboratory for its analysis. The second step is performed the physicochemical characterization of the sample which consist of the determination of parameters such as particle size, pH, moisture, particle density and nitrogen. The guide of this procedure is found in NOM-021-RECNAT-2000. b) Vermicompost Production The Vermicompost production consists of mixing land, organic wastes, water and worms in a tray. After, every third day organic wastes are added in the mixture, because these are necessary for the worms growth. Also, aeration must be generated in the vermicompost every 24 hours. c) Production of compost from Pleurotus

1. Introduction
The project objective is to remediate a crop soil with low fertility, from vermicompost and compost made from waste production unit of Pleurotus ostreatus. The present work has as justification that nowadays it is necessary to implement efficient technologies and reduce the cost for the remediation of soils, with nutrient poor conditions, used as farmland. The possibility of using plant waste to make amendments nutrition is an alternative to minimize the use of chemical fertilizers, while providing a considerable amount of organic matter to soil. Aiming to produce a biofertilizer with optimal nutritional qualities, taking advantage of the capacity to degrade vegetables waste that have the fungus Pleurotus ostreatus along with nutrients generated by means of biomass during mycelial growth. Composting is an efficient method to improve the conditions of a crop field, also known to work in the bioremediation of contaminated soils. Hence the hypothesis that the vermicompost use and compost made from waste of production units Pleurotus simultaneously serve to improve the conditions of a sample of soil (pH, nitrogen, nutrients identification, heavy metal content).

The elaboration of this compost consists of mixing the waste of the units of production of the Pleurotus mushroom with soil and water. It is mixed uniformly inside a tray. After, aeration is generated in the mixture every 24 hours. Finally the compost sample is realized; the physicochemical analysis this analysis includes ph, dampness and nitrogen.

3. Results and discussion

Moisture and particle size Moisture analysis is performed by gravity, while the particle size analysis is realized by sieving. The results are interpreted using a grading curve. The interpretation marks that the values of soil moisture at remedying is low; and after the application of compost, the moisture increased more than 6 times. (See table 1)

The determination of pH is essential for the growth of microorganism in the soil and also for the type of plants that can be wished to cultivate, it is advisable to consult tables, the type of soil and the recommended ph when choosing the plant. In this case the initial alkaline pH is kept before and after treatment. (See Table 4)

4. Conclusion
Based on the results, it can be concluded that the vermicompost and the use of waste of mushroom production units are useful to remedy low soil fertility. This was validated by increasing soil moisture 6.5 times, important for microbial activity, organic matter decomposition, soil erosion prevention and high compactness. In addition, the moisture generated the clayish texture system, and also the value nitrogen. The importance resides in its utility for the growth of higher plants. Soil showed enrichment for the humus and waste generated as cellulose and lignin. Finally, the pH measurement showed a high value that affects the development of living beings. Also, the evaluation of appropriate concentrations of each type of compost allows to control the final pH value after soil treatment.

Table 1 Different samples generated before and after treatment, through the determination of moisture, calculated as dry weight, and the particle size obtained by sieving. Total nitrogen determination After the remediation of soil, nitrogen results show increased concentration and can be classified as a rich soil, in contrast to the Initial classification that showed a poor soil. (See table 2.)

12. References
List and number all bibliographical references in 9point Times, single-spaced, at the end of your paper. When referenced in the text, enclose the citation number in square brackets, for example [1]. Where appropriate, include the name(s) of editors of referenced books. Real density The actual density is important to know the soil classification, in this case happens to be sandy, which means little water retention, because it sinks to deeper layers. (See Table 3) [1] A.B. Smith, C.D. Jones, and E.F. Roberts, Article Title, Journal, Publisher, Location, Date, pp. 1-10. [2] Jones, C.D., A.B. Smith, and E.F. Roberts, Book Title, Publisher, Location, Date.

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pH Determination