How to Grow Plants in Biofiltration Basins

while Minimizing Phosphorus in Runoff

When seeking to solve problems caused by built environments, mimicking natural environments is a logical way to go. For example, we look to plants—especially native species with their deep root systems—to help control erosion and filter contaminants in urban biofiltration basins. But the organic materials (compost) needed for plants to thrive can actually increase phosphorus in runoff, leading to harmful algae blooms (HABS) in our lakes.


SAFL researchers approached this conundrum by testing many compost-media mixes and ratios, looking for the perfect one...

What media mixture was best? 
 
 
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