IMPREGNATED WILLOW WOOD CHIPS (SALIX VIMINALIS L.): A NOVEL SOIL AMENDMENT FOR ENHANCING SOIL QUALITY

Thisstudyintroduces a novel method of treating willow chips (Salix viminalisL.) by impregnating them with a solution of conventional mineral fertilizers. Modified willow wood chips have the potential to utilize as an innovative soil amendment andoffer benefits for agriculture, horticulture and forestry to improve soil water retention capacity, soil fertility and structure. Experimental results indicate the feasibility of developing a product with nitrogen (N) levels from a minimum of 2%, phosphorus (P) levels exceeding 0.5%, potassium (K) levels exceeding 1.5%, and an organic matter content over 90% of the dry weight.