Evaluation of different concentrations of Sea kelp and K-Humate in coal tailings rehabilitation South Africa

Sea kelp and potassium Humate are two amendments commonly used in the agronomy and crop science industries to improve germination and root development. This study evaluated different concentrations of Sea kelp and potassium Humate in rehabilitating coal tailings. The aim was to evaluate the growth potential of Cynodon dactylon and to set norms for coal tailings about Sea kelp and potassium Humate . Four different concentrations of each ameliorant were applied to the coal tailings, where the pH, of the medium was measured and for the grass specie, germination, survivability, and growth performance were measured. First, it was deduced that these amendments positively affected the establishment and survivability of Cynodon dactylon on the coal tailings. Secondly, it was found that the application of Sea kelp and K-Humate had a buffering effect on the reacidification of coal tailings. The highest concentration of Sea kelp and the agricultural norm for potassium Humate showed the highest buffering capacity.