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Abstract
Production of compost is an environment-friendly method for managing the large biomass of fallen ginkgo leaves. The present study investigated the effect of ginkgo leaf compost (GLC) as a soil amendment for the rooting and growth of New Guinea impatiens (Impatiens hawkeri var. ‘Java’) cuttings. Chemical and physical properties of the amended soil were analysed together with various root growth parameters and antioxidant enzyme activities in plantlets grown in soils with different additions of GLC (0, 50, 100, or 200 g to 2 kg soil). Correlation analyses were used to explore the relationship between the various root growth parameters. The results showed that the electrical conductivity (EC) values of the amended soils were suitable for plant growth. Furthermore, nutrient concentrations, root growth parameters, and activity of antioxidant enzymes of the roots increased significantly with the addition of GLC. At 15 d post planting, root fractal dimensions and root abundance showed no significant differences, whereas at 65 d post planting, there was a significant difference in both parameters. Additionally, the results showed that root fractal dimensions and root abundance were significantly correlated with other root growth parameters and with the nutrient concentrations in the soils. It was concluded that GLC improved the chemical and physical properties of the soil and promoted root growth of New Guinea impatiens cuttings. Overall, it was found that 100 g GLC in 2 kg of soil was the optimal concentration for promoting root growth of New Guinea impatiens cuttings.