Collard (Brassica oleracea L., var. Acephala) DC. and tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) were grown in central Mississippi to evaluate growth, quality, and mineral concentration changes from two different fertilizer sources: composted broiler chicken litter (CBL) and conventional synthetic fertilizer (CON). CBL rates were: 0,1,2, and 4 t/ha. CON was applied as ammonium nitrate, superphosphate and potassium chloride to deliver 50-100-100 kg/ha N-P-K. All were applied to a wide band and tilled to six inches. Collard and tomato plants were harvested every 10-14 days after transplanting (DAT). Soils were sampled at 0 DAT and immediately after final harvest. Collard shoot growth response to CBL was linear, as was that of tomato. Shoot fresh and dry weight greatest with CON, with the4 t/ha CBL under that for each crop. Post harvest soil-test nitrate, phosphorus, and potassium levels increased with CBL rate, mostly in the surface 20 cm. Soil test of arsenic, copper, and zinc are also being completed. CBL application increased post-harvest soil pH levels. Mineral concentrations in the shoots were also measured.
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