Does the Use of Biodegradable Materials Aid in Plant Growth?

This topic submitted by Michelle Kirby, Laura Krugh, Jennifer Peterson, Lauren Stiebler ( Stiebllb@muohio.edu ) on 12/14/03 .

Natural Systems 1 Syllabus---Western Program---Miami University

To find a more in depth view of our project visit Does the Use of Biodegradable Materials Aid in Plant Growth?

Abstract

Our Research Question was "Does the Use of Biodegradable Materials Aid in Plant Growth?" We believe that the answer to this question is important for water stressed countries because the results could lead to a more efficient way of watering crops. By making better use of their water supply, they could irrigate more land with the same amount of water as before. After testing five different materials: animal bedding, diaper, Soil Moist, sponge, and corn cob, we found that they have an affect on the growth of bean plants.Each tray contained eight different percentages of a material/soil mixture, ranging from 10% material/90% soil, to 85% material/ 15% soil.Ê For comparisons sake, we grouped each percentage into two categories: above 50% or below 50% material. We found that by watering less frequently, the plants that had biodegradable materials performed the best as compared to a constant, which was 100% soil. After collecting data for two months, we discovered that the percentages had no effect on the growth rate, however, the materials did affect overall production and water retention. The findings of this report are relevant in that, these types of materials could be used in countries with significant drought to help grow food. With further research, biodegradable materials could become part of mainstream agriculture. To find a more in depth view of our project visit Does the Use of Biodegradable Materials Aid in Plant Growth?

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