Effect of yard wastes organic mulches on soil nutrient

Yard wastes (branches, leaves, wood chips and grass clippings) are collected and composted for use as organic mulch in ornamental landscapes. This study demonstrates the potential that composted yard wastes have to influence on soil fertility. Organic matter content, total extractable nitrogen, nitrogen in microbial biomass, dissolved organic nitrogen, and concentrations of mineral nitrogen (NH₄, NO₂, NO₃) were all enhanced by mulching with composted yard waste, and thus have the potential to rejuvenate poor soils and restore nutrient cycling processes in ornamental landscapes. As such, results of these experiments will contribute directly to the development of soil management for ornamental landscapes that can diminish reliance on inorganic fertilizers, while increasing markets for recycled organic wastes.