Organic fertilizers, such as compost and other products derived from organic waste, are a valuable source of nutrients and an important part of the circular economy. Their use reduces waste, returns nutrients to the soil, and supports sustainable agriculture.
But – did you know that such fertilizers can contain plant viruses and viroids?
If composting is not carried out properly, these disease agents can survive in the material and pose a risk to plant health. This is a challenge we aim to better understand – together with you – within the project “A closer look at viruses and viroids: Together for safer use of fertilizers from organic waste.”
Why check the safety of organic fertilizers?
At the beginning of 2026, we will prepare a short survey to learn how you incorporate compost and other organic fertilizers into your practices – from preparation to use in gardens or farms. We are interested in how you prepare, store, and apply them, as well as how you handle purchased fertilizers. The collected data will help us better understand current practices and develop recommendations for safer use that preserves plant health.
Special opportunity for participants:
Among all who complete the survey, we will select several individuals who express interest in further collaboration. These selected participants will have the opportunity to send a sample of their compost or other organic fertilizer for analysis to detect plant viruses and viroids.
In April or May 2026, selected participants will receive detailed instructions on how to prepare the sample and where to send it. This is a unique chance to contribute to research and learn more about the safety of your fertilizers.
Your privacy matters to us – all collected data will be processed confidentially, and participant anonymity will be ensured in all published results.
Who is behind the project?
The project “Viruses and Viroids Under the Microscope: Together for Safer Use of Organic Waste-Based Fertilizers” is carried out at the National Institute of Biology in collaboration with the Biotechnical Faculty of the University of Ljubljana.
Follow our updates and find more information at: https://projects.nib.si/virokomp/obcanska-znanost-2/
