Applications of sheep’s wool in the fertilization of agricultural crops: A strategy for its valorization

Carlos Farfán-Flores; Pablo A. López-Pérez; Carlos A. Lucho-Constantino; Silvia Armenta-jaime; Sergio Hernández-León; Oscar Arce-Cervantes

Applications of sheep’s wool in the fertilization of agricultural crops: A strategy for its valorization

Authors

Carlos Farfán-Flores Autonomous University of Hidalgo State
Pablo A. López-Pérez Autonomous University of Hidalgo State
Carlos A. Lucho-Constantino Autonomous University of Hidalgo State
Silvia Armenta-jaime Autonomous University of Hidalgo State
Sergio Hernández-León Autonomous University of Hidalgo State
Oscar Arce-Cervantes Autonomous University of Hidalgo State

Keywords:

Sheep's wool, organic composts, soil amendments, organic fertilizers, and plant biostimulants

Abstract

Sheep farming in Mexico for meat production leads to an underproduction of sheep's wool. However, this material has obtained a very low economic value in recent years, making it vulnerable to improper handling for disposal. This review promotes the valorization of this material in crop fertilization, taking advantage of its physical, chemical and biological properties through its processing in; fertilizers, soil amendments, organic fertilizers, and plant biostimulants. Therefore, their reintegration promotes the development of a circular economy in sheep farming.