Leaching of nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium from composting sawdust amended with chicken litter

A six month study evaluated the effects of composting on leaching of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium from hardwood and furniture sawdust amended with 20% and 30% chicken litter. Toxicity characteristic Leaching Procedure (TCLP) was used to obtain leachates from substrates. Moisture was provided through precipitation, and the substrate was aerated once or twice per week, depending on the amount of rainfall. Samples were collected in 45 day intervals for an analysis. A significant reduction in concentrations of N and K occurred for all amended compost by day 180. Hardwood substrate matured quicker than furniture compost according to a radish seed germination test. A reduction in toxicity occurred in every treatment by day 180. Hardwood substrate matured quicker than furniture compost according to a radish seed germination test. A reduction in toxicity occurred in every treatment by day 180. Chicken litter control showed the best overall weight loss; however, its toxicity levels were still high on day 180.