Compost as a sustainable tool for greenhouse horticultural productivity: benefits, limitations, and state of the art

Abstract

Greenhouse horticulture plays a vital role in modern agriculture, offering a controlled environment for the cultivation of high-value crops while mitigating the adverse effects of climate variability. However, its intensive nature requires sustainable soil management strategies to maintain productivity and long-term fertility. This review, conducted following a PRISMA-based systematic methodology and synthesizing peer-reviewed studies published between 2015 and 2025, evaluates the role of compost as a sustainable soil amendment in greenhouse systems. Quantitative evidence indicates that compost application can enhance crop yield (up to 20–40%), improve soil health, and increase nutrient availability. In addition to these benefits, compost contributes to circular economy principles through organic waste valorization and reduced reliance on synthetic inputs. Nevertheless, limitations such as variability in composition, salinity risks, and nutrient imbalances are critically discussed, highlighting the need for optimized management strategies. Particular emphasis is placed on application rate, compost maturity, and incorporation methods to maximize agronomic benefits while minimizing environmental risks. Overall, compost represents a promising pathway for sustainable intensification in greenhouse horticulture, with strong global relevance for food security under climate change and resource constrained conditions.