NEWS FROM REAL RESEARCH HUB

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Research Hub starts project on Plant Response Test Interpretation & Comparison!

Posted: 19 September, 2024. Written by Megan Muller-Girard

We are thrilled to announce the start of our Plant Response Test (PRT) Interpretation and Comparison project!
 

This project arose in response to challenges raised by CCS Producers related to PRT failures (e.g., difficulty identifying the cause germination/top growth failures and the 28-day duration of re-testing). The project will explore the use of a shorter Spring Barley PRT (10-12 days) alongside the standard Tomato PRT.

The project has two aims:

1. To compare the performance of the spring barley PRT with the tomato PRT on CCS composts with a view to adding the spring barley PRT in future versions of PAS 100
2. To use the spring barley PRT results and compost sample characterisation analysis to better understand tomato PRT performance/failure

We’re excited to work with partners across the sector to deliver this project. CCS approved laboratories Eurofins Agro Testing UK Ltd and Stockbridge Technology Centre (with D&F Associates’ involvement) will test compost samples using a Spring Barley test method developed in partnership with Solidsense Ltd. Audrey Litterick of Earthcare Technical Ltd has taken on the role of the project’s Technical Coordinator, working with the labs to gather and manage data for later analysis.

Stay tuned for more updates!