Biomass production and heavy metal content of Rosmarinus officinalis grown on MSW compost and cattle manure

Abstract

Background & Aim: Rosemary (<em>Rosmarinus officinalis</em> L.) is an evergreen and aromatic plant that is used in pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries-health. Little research has been reported on the greenhouse production of this plant. This paper presents the effects of municipal solid waste compost (MSWC) and cattle manure on rosemary growth in pots at greenhouse. Martial & Methods: Municipal solid waste compost of Kerman city and cattle manure were mixed with soil at rates of 0, 2 and 4 % dry matter basis. The micronutrient and heavy metal contents of the aerial parts of the plant were analyzed to determine nutritional status and heavy metal accumulation. Results & Discussion: Biomass production increased significantly when plants were grown in the municipal solid waste compost and cattle manure. Plants grown on amended soils showed a general improvement in their micronutrient (Fe and Zn) status, yet their heavy metal (Pb and Cd) contents did not increase significantly. Conclusion: The concentration of heavy metals found in the shoots would not significantly increase their transfer from the soil to humans via the food chain.