PRODUCTION OF TOMATO SEEDLINGS ON COMPOSTS OF VINE BRANCHES AND GRAPEPRUNINGS, HUSKS AND SEEDS

Compost mixtures and composts from vine branches and grape prunings, h usks and seeds were studied to evaluate their possibility of substitut ing the conventional peat mixture for tomato seedling production. Spec ific respiration rate (CO2/biomass C ratio) and intensity of nitrifica tion appear to be reliable criteria for compost stability. Compost mix tures and composts showed better agrochemical properties than the peat mixture, resulting in increased plant growth. It was found that tomat o seedlings on compost mixtures and composts had a higher dry matter c ontent, total mass, length and diameter of stems and number of leaves. They were ready to be transplanted four to five days earlier than pla nts grown on peat mixture. The results clearly indicate that peat mixt ure can be substituted by compost mixtures and composts. Furthermore, they have a better economic value.