International Journal of Recycling of Organic Waste in Agriculture (IJROWA) Transforming organic waste into productive resources through vermicompost and hydroponics in rice agriculture: A review Volume 13 (2024) IJROWA Issue 3, July 2024 2024 02 14 Transforming organic waste into productive resources through vermicompost and hydroponics in rice agriculture: A review 10.57647/j.ijrowa.2024.1303.25 EN Syarifinnur Syarifinnur Brawi- Jaya University, Jl. Veteran, Malang 65145, Indonesia 0000-0002-9078-5360 Ahmad Suriadi Research Center for Food Crops, National Research and Innovation Agency Republic of Indonesia (BRIN), Cibinong Science Center, Jl. Raya-Bogor, KM 46, Cibinong, Bogor, Indonesia 0000-0002-7883-5038 Lia Hadiawati Research Center for Food Crops, National Research and Innovation Agency Republic of Indonesia (BRIN), Cibinong Science Center, Jl. Raya-Bogor, KM 46, Cibinong, Bogor, Indonesia 0009-0006-1778-4990 Yudhistira Nugraha Research Center for Food Crops, National Research and Innovation Agency Republic of Indonesia (BRIN), Cibinong Science Center, Jl. Raya-Bogor, KM 46, Cibinong, Bogor, Indonesia 0000-0002-9408-5388 Journal Article 2024 02 14 Purpose: Integrating vermicompost and hydroponics in rice agriculture presents an innovative and sustainable solution for transforming organic waste into valuable resources. This review explores the possible utilization of organic waste into productive resources through vermicompost and hydroponics in rice agriculture. Method: A comprehensive literature review was conducted to investigate the potential use of vermicompost derived from organic waste for hydroponic rice agriculture. The available literature was analyzed to reveal and explore the various aspects of this application. Results: The literature review reveals that the utilization of vermicompost derived from organic waste in hydroponic rice agriculture holds the potential to evolve into effective strategies for reducing, reusing, and recycling organic waste. Vermicompost decreases used inorganic fertilizers, with studies reporting up to 30% reductions. The application of vermicompost can enhance plant growth by approximately 15% to 30% and positively impact increasing specific nutrients in plants. Using vermicompost can also increase the average crop yield by about 5% to 25% compared to other organic materials. Conclusion: This study found that integrating vermicompost and hydroponics represents a promising approach for transforming organic waste into productive resources. This integration allows organic waste to be effectively converted into nutrient-rich vermicompost and valuable growing medium in hydroponic systems. Scientific research has demonstrated the potential benefits of this approach, including improved nutrient availability, enhanced plant growth and yield, and reduced environmental impact. By combining the nutrient-rich properties of vermicompost with the precision and efficiency of hydroponic systems, farmers can achieve sustainable and resource-efficient crop production. Highlights • Earthworms effectively decompose organic waste into plant-available nutrients. • Vermicompost significantly contributed to the growth and productivity of plants. • Utilize vermicompost and hydroponics for enhanced agricultural output and eco impact. • The integration of vermicompost and hydroponics in rice farming is innovative. • Vermicompost from organic waste can be used as a planting medium in rice hydroponics.  

International Journal of Recycling of Organic Waste in Agriculture (IJROWA) Comparative study of cucumber ( Cucumissativus L.) cultivars under organic fertilizer treatments in the Southern Guinea Savanna, Nigeria Volume 13 (2024) IJROWA Issue 3, July 2024 2024 02 14 Comparative study of cucumber ( Cucumissativus L.) cultivars under organic fertilizer treatments in the Southern Guinea Savanna, Nigeria 10.57647/j.ijrowa.2024.1303.26 EN A. I. Afe Department of Crop Production, Kwara State University, Malete, Nigeria 0000-0001-8952-5476 A.A Olowoake Department of Crop Production, Kwara State University, Malete, Nigeria 0000-0002-5961-4846 C.O Akure Department of Agricultural Extension Management, Forestry Research institute of Nigeria, Federal College of Forestry and mechanization (Afaka), Kaduna, Nigeria 0009-0006-6919-4714 M.R Babatunde Department of Crop Production, Kwara State University, Malete, Nigeria 0009-0004-6943-284 Journal Article 2024 02 14 Purpose: The study investigated the growth and yield of cucumber cultivars under the influence of the organic fertilizers application. Method: A 4 x 5 factorial combination of four cucumber cultivars (Poinsett, Marketer, Marketmore, and  Darina hybrid) and four organic fertilizers (Sunshine, Aleshinloye, Gateway, KWASU organic-based fertilizer-KOBF, and the control) in a completely randomized design at the screen house and a randomized complete block in split-plot fashion in the field were replicated three times. Results: At 8 WAP in the screen house, the leaf areas and vine length at the control were significantly (p< 0.05) lower compared to the treated plots with the application of organic fertilizers. The  Darina hybrid had significantly longer fruit (17.8cm), thicker fruits (13.70 cm), and a higher Fruit yield per hectare (10083.23 kg) compared to other cultivars. In the field, regardless of the organic fertilizer applied, leaf area, fruit length, fruit circumference, and fruit yield per hectare produced at the control were significantly lower than where there were soil amendments. The treated plots with the application of KOBF had significantly more leaf area, longer and thicker fruits, and fruit yield per hectare compared to the application of other organic fertilizers. The fruit length (12.74 cm), fruit circumference (12.30 cm), and fruit yield per hectare (4048.29 kg) obtained with the application of Aleshinloye organic fertilizer were significantly (p< 0.05) lower compared to other organic fertilizers. Conclusion: The  Darina hybrid was superior to other cultivars with the application of KOBF organic fertilizer. Highlights ·   The growth and fruit yield of cucumbers were enhanced with the application of organic fertilizers and varied among the fertilizers and cucumber cultivars. ·     Regardless of cucumber cultivar, KOBF ranked first, followed by Gateway, Sunshine, and Aleshinloye. ·     Among the four cucumber cultivars, the darina hybrid was found to be the best in both the field and screen house studies. ·    Application of KOBF fertilizer and Darina cultivars is recommended for organic cucumber production.  

International Journal of Recycling of Organic Waste in Agriculture (IJROWA) Feasibility study of pilot scale vegetable waste composting project for Kundasang community’s waste management program Volume 13 (2024) IJROWA Issue 3, July 2024 2024 02 14 Feasibility study of pilot scale vegetable waste composting project for Kundasang community’s waste management program 10.57647/j.ijrowa.2024.1303.27 EN Noorafizah Murshid Chemical Engineering Programme, Faculty of Engineering, University Malaysia Sabah, Jalan UMS, 88400 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia 0000-0002-9163-0862 Abu Zahrim Yaser Chemical Engineering Programme, Faculty of Engineering, University Malaysia Sabah, Jalan UMS, 88400 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia 0000-0001-7740-8897 Junidah Lamaming Chemical Engineering Programme, Faculty of Engineering, University Malaysia Sabah, Jalan UMS, 88400 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia 0000-0003-2937-4295 Mariani Rajin Chemical Engineering Programme, Faculty of Engineering, University Malaysia Sabah, Jalan UMS, 88400 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia 0000-0001-8545-2572 Sariah Saalah Chemical Engineering Programme, Faculty of Engineering, University Malaysia Sabah, Jalan UMS, 88400 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia 0000-0001-6181-7346 Mariana Taliban Persatuan Pemborong dan Peruncit Sayur Bumiputera Kundasang, Sabah, Malaysia Journal Article 2024 02 14 Purpose: Vegetable waste (VW) composting was assessed using a passive aerated pilot-scale composter at Kundasang, Sabah. The passive aerated composting system proposed at Kundasang Community Composting Site (KCCS) was analyzed for its techno-economic impact. Method: The composting performance (temperature, organic matter loss, moisture content, pH value, electrical conductivity, and nutrient value) of 500 ± 2 kg of VW, 250 ± 2 kg of RH, and 19 ± 1 kg of CM feedstock mixture was analyzed. The benefit-to-cost ratio was used to assess the impact of the techno-economic analysis on the designed and piloted KCCS. Results: In the pilot scale composting condition, temperature reached its highest at 59 ± 7 °C (day 5) and for five consecutive days (day 2 until day 6) in the thermophilic phase. Results of the final compost (on a dry matter basis) showed that the moisture content is 62 ± 0.2% WM, the pH level is 7.6 ± 0.1, the electrical conductivity is 1.8 ± 0.4 mS/cm, and the N, P, and K values are 0.58 ± 0.10% DM, 0.04 ± 0.02% DM, and 0.17 ± 0.04% DM, respectively. The techno-economic analysis shows that with the capital cost normalized on a 20-year basis, the KCCS composter system can generate approximately MYR 25, 000 (USD 5, 600) per year in revenue. Conclusion: The results show that these composting methods are suitable for VW and Kundasang community conditions, and this study will benefit the community in dealing with VW waste and generating a circular economy while establishing a self-sustaining community.   Highlights ·       A passive aerated pilot-scale composter was used to compost vegetable waste. ·       Chicken manure is utilized as an activator. ·       Techno-economic effects and physiochemical aspects of composting were analyzed. ·       The system generates MYR 25000 annually with a 20-year capital cost normalization.      

International Journal of Recycling of Organic Waste in Agriculture (IJROWA) Efficacy of vermicompost derived from local organic wastes as nursery sub-strates for cabbage and chili seedlings Volume 13 (2024) IJROWA Issue 3, July 2024 2024 02 14 Efficacy of vermicompost derived from local organic wastes as nursery sub-strates for cabbage and chili seedlings 10.57647/j.ijrowa.2024.1303.28 EN Haruthai Thaisuchat Faculty of Science, Lampang Rajabhat University, Lampang, Thailand 0000-0002-2019-6069 Purepan Panikanan Faculty of Agricultural Technology, Lampang Rajabhat University, Lampang, Thailand 0009-0006-2878-5171 Jumnian Meesumlee Faculty of Agricultural Technology, Lampang Rajabhat University, Lampang, Thailand 0000-0001-8221-8705 Journal Article 2024 02 14 Purpose: This study aimed to evaluate vermicompost derived from various local organic wastes as a nursery material for cultivating cabbage and chili seedlings, converting organic waste into fertilizer through vermicomposting. Method: Local organic materials, including cow dung, spent mushroom waste, and coffee grounds were utilized as the main substrates for earthworm bedding. Three main substrates, one additive (white popinac leaves), and various combinations of these materials were processed, resulting in a total of 10 methods. After two months of composting, all vermicompost was analyzed for N, P, and K content before being used as nursery material for seedling production of cabbage (Brassica oleracea) and chili (Capsicum annuum). A commercial nursery material was used as a control. Results: The results revealed a significant difference between vermicompost with bedding derived from different organic materials and N P K content. After 4 weeks of plant germination, plant height, leaf width, leaf length, and the number of leaves of cabbage showed the greatest in treatment with vermicompost 8 (cow dung: spent mushroom waste: white popinac leaves) followed by vermicompost 4 (cow dung: spent mushroom), which showed comparable results to the commercial nursery material. A negative effect on chili seedling growth was found in some treatments. Conclusion: The study concluded that cow dung proved to be an excellent material for use as a bedding substrate and earthworm feed. Vermicompost produced from a combination of cow dung and spent mushroom waste, or supplemented with white popinac leaves, can effectively serve as a nursery material for cabbage seedlings.   Highlights ·      The vermicompost derived from a combination of cow dung and spent mushroom waste, or supplemented with white popinac leaves, can be effectively used for cultivating cabbage seedlings. ·      Cow dung is an organic waste suitable for use as the primary substrate or as an ingredient in the substrate for vermicomposting with a high macronutrient content. ·      Vermicomposting is a solution to reduce the amount of spent mushroom waste, coffee grounds, and white popinac leaves, while generating natural fertilizer from otherwise unused waste.    

International Journal of Recycling of Organic Waste in Agriculture (IJROWA) Integrated application of wood ash and inorganic fertilizer sources on vegetative growth, fruit yield, and nutrient quality of Solanum aethiopicum L. Volume 13 (2024) IJROWA Issue 3, July 2024 2024 02 14 Integrated application of wood ash and inorganic fertilizer sources on vegetative growth, fruit yield, and nutrient quality of Solanum aethiopicum L. 10.57647/j.ijrowa.2024.1303.29 EN Nneka Angela Okoli Department of Crop Science and Horticulture, Faculty of Agriculture, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Nigeria 0000-0003-2608-6482 Ifeoma Chiazokam Nwafor Department of Crop Science and Horticulture, Faculty of Agriculture, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Nigeria 0009-0003-6538-6071 Martina Ihegboro Department of Crop Science and Horticulture, Faculty of Agriculture, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Nigeria 0009-0005-4374-8064 Lilian Chinaenye Emma-Okafor Department of Crop Science and Technology, School of Agriculture and Agricultural Technology, Federal Uni-versity of Technology, Owerri, Nigeria 0000-0002-9317-5197 Boniface Okechukwu Nwosu Department of Crop Science and Horticulture, Faculty of Agriculture, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Nigeria 0009-0001-0513-6084 Charles Uche Onwuchekwa Department of Crop Science and Horticulture, Faculty of Agriculture, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Nigeria 0009-0005-8841-9715 Innocent Izuchukwu Ibeawuchi Department of Crop Science and Technology, School of Agriculture and Agricultural Technology, Federal Uni-versity of Technology, Owerri, Nigeria 0000-00003-1065-1264 Journal Article 2024 02 14 Purpose: Wood ash is an important alternative source of inorganic potassium especially for farmers in areas with acidic soils. Method: The experiment was carried out in two phases. In the first phase, treatments consisted of the application of inorganic fertilizer sources (0 kgha-1, 130.44 kgha-1 of urea, and 300 kgha-1 of NPK of 20:10:10) and wood ash (0 tha-1, 5 tha-1 , and 10 tha-1) to garden egg seedlings. In the second phase of the experiment, garden eggfruits were analyzed for nutrient contents. Results: Significant (p≤0.05) fruit yield followed this order: 10 tha-1 of wood ash > control > 5 tha-1 of wood ash. Inorganic fertilizer sources effect on fruit yield followed this sequence:  300 kgha-1 of NPK 20:10:10 > 130.44 kgha-1 of urea > control. The interaction of 10 tha-1 of wood ash and 300 kgha-1 of NPK 20:10:10 produced the highest fruit yield (57 ± 0.50 tha-1). A combined application of 300 kgha-1 of NPK and 5 tha-1 of wood ash showed a greater improvement in vitamin C while an integrated application of 130.44 kgha-1 of urea and 10 tha-1 of wood ash increased vitamin A contents of garden egg. Conclusion: Integration of 10 tha-1 of wood ash and 300 kgha-1 of NPK 20:10:10 positively improved the growth and yield of the garden egg. The addition of a lower rate of wood ash to NPK fertilizer and a higher rate of wood ash to urea significantly improved the nutrient contents of garden eggs.   Highlights ● Wood ash is an effective organic lime used in soil amendment of acidic soils. ● Fruit yield in garden eggs showed a linear increase with increasing rates of wood ash. ● Application of NPK fertilizer had superior fruit yield and quality to urea fertilizer. ● Potassium in wood ash and NPK fertilizer accounts for high fruit yield in garden egg. ●Integration of wood ash and inorganic fertilizers produced higher nutrient contents.  

International Journal of Recycling of Organic Waste in Agriculture (IJROWA) Swine manure management by bokashi fermentation and composting with biological activators in a Colombian High Mountain Region Volume 13 (2024) IJROWA Issue 3, July 2024 2024 02 14 Swine manure management by bokashi fermentation and composting with biological activators in a Colombian High Mountain Region 10.57647/j.ijrowa.2024.1303.30 EN Patricia Martinez-Nieto Tibaitatá Research Center. Corporación Colombiana de Investigación Agropecuaria (Agrosavia), Km 14 Road to Mosquera, Cundinamarca, Colombia 0000-0002-3392-0837 Carlos Abaunza Nataima Research Center. Corporación Colombiana de Investigación Agropecuaria (Agrosavia), Km. 9 Road to Espinal, Tolima, Colombia 0000-0003-4496-1455 Gustavo Garcia Tibaitatá Research Center. Corporación Colombiana de Investigación Agropecuaria (Agrosavia), Km 14 Road to Mosquera, Cundinamarca, Colombia 0000-0002-7844-1784 Journal Article 2024 02 14 Purpose: Clean and efficient alternatives for sustainable treatment of pig farming wastes are a priority in suburban areas in Forest Reserves of High Andean ecosystems. Among these technologies are Bokashi Fermentation and composting with added microorganisms (bioaugmentation) or nutrients (biostimulation) as biological activators. Method: In a Colombian rural area located at 3160 m.a.s.l., focused on small-scale swine production, Bokashi fermentation with active dry yeast and in-vessel composting were evaluated using two microbial inoculants and a sterile metabolic stimulant. In addition, these treatments were compared with a non-inoculated composting process used in the study area (control). Results: The biological additives improved the composting process performance and end- product quality by shortening the degradation cycle (19.9-45.9%), higher germination index (>0.8%), increasing nutrient content (N, P, S, Fe and Cu) and showing suppressive activity against Fusarium oxysporum compared to control. Nevertheless, Bokashi was the only treatment that decreased Enterobacteriaceae concentration below 1E+03 CFU g-1. Conclusion: Bokashi technology complies with Colombia’s environmental regulations for eco-friendly fertilizer production, which allows the sustainable management by-products from swine activities in critical ecological areas such as Forestry Protection Reserves in High Andean ecosystems.   Highlights ·       Biological activators reduce the swine manure composting time. ·       The inoculation benefits compost maturation. ·       The inoculated composts show suppressive activity against Fusarium Oxysporum. ·       Bioaugmentation and biostimulation produce composts with a higher agronomic value. ·       Bokashi is a sustainable alternative for pig farmers in High Andean ecosystems.    

International Journal of Recycling of Organic Waste in Agriculture (IJROWA) Quantifying the impact of fermented liquid bio formulations, biofertilizers and organic amendments on horticultural and soil nutrient traits of garden pea ( Pisum sativum L.) Volume 13 (2024) IJROWA Issue 3, July 2024 2024 02 14 Quantifying the impact of fermented liquid bio formulations, biofertilizers and organic amendments on horticultural and soil nutrient traits of garden pea ( Pisum sativum L.) 10.57647/j.ijrowa.2024.1303.31 EN Vandana Thakur Department of Horticulture, School of Agriculture, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara 144411, Punjab, India 0000-0002-3994-5496 Praveen Sharma Department of Vegetable Science and Floriculture, College of Agriculture, CSK Himachal Pradesh Krishi Vishvavidyalaya, Palampur – 176062 HP, India Pradeep Kumar College of Life Sciences, Central University Dharmshala, Himachal Pradesh, 176215, India Payal Sharma Department of Vegetable Science and Floriculture, College of Agriculture, CSK Himachal Pradesh Krishi Vishvavidyalaya, Palampur – 176062 HP, India Sartaj Ahmad Bhat River Basin Research Center, Gifu University, 1-1 Yanagido, Gifu, Japan Sunny Sharma Department of Horticulture, School of Agriculture, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara 144411, Punjab, India 0000-0002-5813-5210 Rehan Azmi Department of Horticulture, School of Agriculture, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara 144411, Punjab, India Shivender Thakur Department of Horticulture, School of Agriculture, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara 144411, Punjab, India Journal Article 2024 02 14 Purpose: Modern agriculture heavily relies on the use of synthetic fertilisers, which are expensive and associated with significant environmental risks. Hence, it is necessary to focus on developing integrated farming practices that encompass cost-effective synthetic fertilisers. Method: The present experimentation was carried out to assess the effect of various treatments comprised of fermented liquid bio formulations, biofertilizers, & organic amendments on the horticultural, biochemical, & soil nutrient attributes of garden pea varieties. A Factorial Randomized Block Design was laid out for treatments in three replications.  Results: The results of the investigation exhibited a significantly positive influence of the treatments and their interaction with pea varieties for most of the studied traits. Among varieties, treatments, and their interactions, variety GS-10 and PB-89 treatment modules, viz., Jeevmurta 20% + Phosphorus solubilizing bacteria 100% + Farmyard manure, and their interaction were found to be best for improving the various horticultural and soil traits i.e. shelling percentage, protein content, effective nodules per plant, available nitrogen and phosphorus content. However, the application of Jeevamurta 20 % + Rhizobium 100 % + Farm yard manure on pea variety GS-10, resulted a positive increment in yielding traits namely, plant height, number of pods per plant, single pod weight, total pod yield, pod yield per plant and pod yield per plot. Conclusion: The combination of variety “GS-10” with Jeevamurta 20%, Rhizobium 100%, and FYM, showed the positive increment in productivity of the garden pea, also found to be effective to control the incidence of rust and powdery mildew.   Highlights ·       Peas have the capability to fix atmospheric nitrogen in the soil, which ultimately benefits the growth and development ·       Modern agriculture heavily relies on the use of synthetic fertilizers, which are expensive and associated with significant environmental risks ·       It is necessary to focus on developing integrated farming practices that encompass cost-effective and sustainable alternatives to synthetic fertilizers. ·       Application of Jeevmurta 20% +Rhizobium 100% coupled with FYM were found to be the best for improvising the growth, yield, quality, and nutrient status of the soil.  

International Journal of Recycling of Organic Waste in Agriculture (IJROWA) Utilizing rice-husk waste as an effective weed control mulch for Holy Basil (Ocimum sanctum ) production in a tropical environment Volume 13 (2024) IJROWA Issue 3, July 2024 2024 02 14 Utilizing rice-husk waste as an effective weed control mulch for Holy Basil (Ocimum sanctum ) production in a tropical environment 10.57647/j.ijrowa.2024.1303.32 EN Vivian Ogechi Osadebe Department of Crop Science, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nigeria 0000-0002-5984-2400 Uchenna Noble Ukwu Department of Crop Science, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nigeria 0000-0003-4683-3596 Nathaniel Dauda Department of Crop Science, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nigeria 0000-0001-5706-0416 Ifesinachi M Nwamba Department of Crop Science, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nigeria Amos Ejike Ede Department of Agricultural Education, Federal College of Education, Eha-Amufu, Nigeria Anthony I Onah Department of Pharmaceutical Microbiology, David Umahi Federal University of Health Sciences, Uburu, Nigeria Journal Article 2024 02 14 Purpose: The growing adverse effects of agrochemicals on environmental health and safety warrant an examination of ecologically safe alternatives for weed control. The objective of this study was to determine the effect of rice-husk waste on the growth performance and weed management (WM) of Ocimum sanctum. Method: In a randomized complete block design with three replications, nine weed management (WM) methods were assessed. These methods included black, red, and transparent polyethylene mulches; rice-husk; sawdust; hoe-weeding at 30 days after transplanting (DAT); a one-time application of 0.2 kg/ha Haloxyfop-P at 30 DAT; daily weeding; and no-weeding. Data were collected on weed parameters and growth attributes of Ocimum sanctum. All data were subjected to analysis of variance. Results: The use of rice-husk mulch resulted in the most significant (p<0.05) increase in plant height (41.70 cm), leaf number (206.80), branch number (50.50), stem girth (2.76 cm), and leaf yield (7.15 t/ha) of Ocimum sanctum compared to the other weed control methods. It was comparable to black polyethylene (BP) in these traits except in leaf number where BP recorded a lower value (165.00). BP mulch was significantly more effective in weed suppression as it recorded the least number of broad leaves (0.00), sedges (0.00) weed biomass (0.00), and the highest weed control efficiency (WCE) (100%) at 10 WAT. The treatments ranked BP>Daily-weeding>Hoe-weeded>Rice-husk>Haloxyfop-PEHS>Red-polyethylene>Sawdust> Transparent-polyethylene>Control in WCE at 10 WAT. Conclusion: The study revealed that rice-husk mulch was the most effective in enhancing the growth and yield attributes of Ocimum sanctum, ranking fourth in weed control efficiency (WCE) at 72.60%, following black polyethylene (BP) mulch (100%), daily-weeding (96%) and hoe-weeded (95.7%).   Highlights ·       The study revealed that black polyethylene mulch  exhibited the highest weed control efficiency exceeding 90%, and recorded complete weed suppression (11%) at 10 weeks after application. ·       Higher weed species diversity was observed  in plots subjected to hoe-weeded, rice husk mulched, and post-emergence herbicide treatments,  suggesting that weed management techniques can influence  the composition of weed flora. ·       Mulching with rice-husk significantly improved several growth parameters of  Ocimum sanctum, including leaf number, number of branches, plant height, stem girth, canopy diameter, and leaf yield,when  compared to other weed control methods. ·       Organic waste recycling practices such as use of rice-husk as mulch offer an effective, sustainable, eco-friendly, and cost-effective option for weed management in crop fields. ·       Medicinal herbs like Ocimum sanctum can be cultivated effectively using rice-husk mulch which provides advantages  such as soil moisture retention, weed suppression, and improved growth performance.  

International Journal of Recycling of Organic Waste in Agriculture (IJROWA) A comprehensive review of composting from coffee waste: Revalori-sation of coffee residue in Colombia Volume 13 (2024) IJROWA Issue 3, July 2024 2024 04 02 A comprehensive review of composting from coffee waste: Revalori-sation of coffee residue in Colombia 10.57647/j.ijrowa.2024.1303.33 EN Juan Manuel Trujillo-González Instituto de Ciencias Ambientales de la Orinoquia Colombiana ICAOC, Facultad de Ciencias Básicas e Ingeniería, Universidad de los Llanos, Campus Barcelona Villavicen-cio, Colombia 0000-0001-9612-4080 Raimundo Jiménez-Ballesta Department of Geology & Geochemistry, Autonoma University of Madrid, Madrid, 28049, Spain 0000-0002-4048-0892 Amanda Silva-Parra Grupo de Investigación “Innovación en Sistemas Agrícolas y Forestales ISAF. Facultad de Ciencias Agropecuarias y Recursos Naturales, Universidad de los Llanos, Campus Barcelona Villavicencio, Colombia 0000-0001-9872-790X Marco Aurelio Torres-Mora Instituto de Ciencias Ambientales de la Orinoquia Colombiana ICAOC, Facultad de Ciencias Básicas e Ingeniería, Universidad de los Llanos, Campus Barcelona Villavicen-cio, Colombia 0000-0002-3824-5412 Francisco J. García Navarro High Technical School Agricultural Engineers of Ciudad Real, University of Castilla-La Mancha, Ciudad Real, Spain 0000-0003-3162-3182 Journal Article 2024 04 02 Purpose: Globally, Colombia is recognized as a coffee-growing country par excellence, which entails generating a large amount of coffee waste. This narrative study aims to review the possible use of such coffee waste to obtain nutrient-rich compost following key composting processes. The final is to investigate the importance and suitability of this compost type. Method: The data collected for this study were from reviewing the scientific literature and research reports available in many reputable academic databases, i.e., Science Direct, Springer, PubMed, and Scopus. Reputable academic search engines like Google Scholar and ResearchGate were used to access relevant research and high-quality scientific documents. Results: The result revealed that using combinations of agro-industrial coffee waste when composted can be applied in agriculture because it provides wide-ranging nutrients, which can fertilize soil, accelerate plant growth, and even improve the nutrient content of vegetables. The SCGs used in agriculture prevent improper waste disposal by decreasing the pollution caused by the degradation of SCGs’ toxic components. Here we explore and review composting processes containing coffee waste. Conclusion: Employing coffee waste for compost implies benefits compared to landfills. The conversion of this coffee biomass waste into compost, and using it as a soil amendment, can reduce the waste volume, improve soil physico-chemical properties, enhance the nutrient use efficiency of crops, and correct the typical soil acidity of Colombian soils used for coffee production.   Highlights   ·       Colombia is recognized as the coffee-growing country par excellence. ·       The coffee agro-industry generates large quantities of solid waste. ·       Composting coffee biomass waste can act as soil amendment and enhances physico-chemical properties. ·       Composting is a highly effective remedy for environmental issues.  

International Journal of Recycling of Organic Waste in Agriculture (IJROWA) Agronomic performance of curly lettuce seedlings from mill compost substrate under organic cropping system Volume 13 (2024) IJROWA Issue 3, July 2024 2024 04 06 Agronomic performance of curly lettuce seedlings from mill compost substrate under organic cropping system 10.57647/j.ijrowa.2024.1303.34 EN Luiz Fernando de Sousa Antunes Rodovia BR 465, Km 07, Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro, Seropédica, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil 0000-0001-8315-4213 Adelson Paulo Araújo Rodovia BR 465, Km 07, Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro, Seropédica, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil 0000-0002-4106-6175 Maria Elizabeth Fernandes Correia Embrapa Agrobiologia, Rodovia BR 465, km 7, 23.897-000, Seropédica, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil 0000-0003-1919-6659 Norma Gouvêa Rumjanek Embrapa Agrobiologia, Rodovia BR 465, km 7, 23.897-000, Seropédica, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil 0000-0002-2174-1137 José Guilherme Marinho Guerra Embrapa Agrobiologia, Rodovia BR 465, km 7, 23.897-000, Seropédica, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil 0000-0002-3532-9661 Journal Article 2024 04 06   Purpose: Millicompost is an organic substrate generated by the activity of millipedes (diplopods) with high potential for seedling production. This work aimed to evaluate the performance of green curly lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) using seedlings produced with millicompost, at different levels of nitrogen (N) fertilization at seedling transplant, in an organic production system. Method: A field experiment was carried out in Seropédica, Rio de Janeiro State, Brazil, in a 2x4 factorial design with four replications, combining seedlings produced with two substrates (millicompost or Biomix® - used as reference) and four levels of N fertilization with castor cake (0, 50, 100 and 200 kg N ha-1) at seedling transplant. Plants were sampled weekly, and lettuce production was evaluated at 42 days after transplant. Results: Seedlings produced with millicompost had root dry mass, plant height, and number of leaves higher than those produced with commercial substrate. At levels 0 and 50 kg N ha-1, lettuce plants originating from seedlings produced with millicompost showed a higher growth rate than those with the commercial substrates, between 35 and 42 days after transplant. Fresh commercial weight, head diameter, and number of leaves of lettuce plants increased linearly as applied N levels increased. These traits were superior in plants from seedlings produced with millicompost than with commercial substrate. Conclusion: The millicompost provided seedlings of improved quality that increased the growth and yield of lettuce plants in the field at different levels of N fertilization.   Highlights ·       Diplopods transform plant residues into organic compost, showcasing millicompost's potential. ·       Millicompost serves as an excellent substrate for lettuce seedling production. ·       N fertilization with 200 kg N ha-1 through the castor bean cake enhances lettuce growth and nutrient accumulation. ·       Lettuce plants from millicompost present superior characteristics to those observed in commercial substrates.    

International Journal of Recycling of Organic Waste in Agriculture (IJROWA) Effects of recycled organic waste in soilless growing medium on the growth and flowering of Gerbera (Gerbera jamesonii Bol.) in pot culture Volume 13 (2024) IJROWA Issue 3, July 2024 2024 04 06 Effects of recycled organic waste in soilless growing medium on the growth and flowering of Gerbera (Gerbera jamesonii Bol.) in pot culture 10.57647/j.ijrowa.2024.1303.35 EN Ali Mahboub Khomami Soil and Water Research Department, Guilan Agricultural and Natural Resources Research and Education Center, AREEO, Rasht, Iran 0000-0003-3404-9489 Abdullah Hatamzadeh Department of Horticulture, Faculty of Agriculture, Guilan University, Rasht, Iran Hosein Jafari Khaljiri Department of Horticulture, Faculty of Agriculture, Guilan University, Rasht, Iran Journal Article 2024 04 06 Purpose: Cocopeat resources in Iran are limited and unsuitable, and they must be imported from abroad at a high cost. It is therefore essential to evaluate suitable growth media to replace cocopeat. Method: During this experiment, we conducted a completely randomized experimental design with seven types of growing media in a greenhouse with two layers of hexane coating, at the flower and ornamental plant research station in Lahijan city. Seven growth substrate treatments were investigated, including: (100%perlite), (75%cocopeat + 25%perlite), (50%tea waste + 25%peanut shells compost + 25%perlite), (50%tea waste +%25 Azolla + %25 Perlite), (50%peanut shells compost + 25%azolla + 25%perlite), (50%peanut shells compost + 25%tea waste +25% azolla) and (25%peanut shells compost + 25%tea Waste + 25%azolla + 25%perlite). Results: According to the results, growth media containing peanut shells, Azolla composts, and tea waste are effective and recommended, which can significantly reduce the use of cocopeat. A substrate containing compost had a better effect on the morphological and physiological characteristics of Gerber. Conclusion: The yield of Gerbera varied greatly among growth substrates, and flower performance was better in some substrates than in cocopeat. The favorable effect of composted substrates on Gerbera yield allows the selection of the growth substrate.   Highlights ·       The introduction of a new growing medium led to a significant reduction in the consumption of Cocopeat. ·       The Cocopeat-free growing medium has produced Gerbera of improved morphological and physiological characteristics. ·        The introduction of new growth substrate combinations containing compost replaces the Cocopeat substrate and produces Gerbera of desirable quality.  

International Journal of Recycling of Organic Waste in Agriculture (IJROWA) Effect of plant and animal based compost on the growth and yield of Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) in a Nigeria-derived Savanna Volume 13 (2024) IJROWA Issue 3, July 2024 2024 04 06 Effect of plant and animal based compost on the growth and yield of Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) in a Nigeria-derived Savanna 10.57647/j.ijrowa.2024.1303.36 EN Michael Ati Kekong Department of Agronomy, University of Cross River State Calabar, Nigeria 0009-0009-6359-1737 Nmadzuru Badeggi Ibrahim Department of Soil Science, University of Abuja, Nigeria 0009-0002-1581-1925 Journal Article 2024 04 06 Purpose: The limitation of the use of some agricultural wastes is their C/N ratio. This study was aimed at integrating cocoa pod husk, moringa leaves, and poultry droppings in composted form for enriched soil amendments for vegetable production. Method: Three compost types: cocoa pod husk, moringa leaf, and poultry droppings were composted for 60 days in a ratio of 3:1:1, 3:1, and 3:1, respectively. Each compost type was applied at the rate of 2.5, 5.0, 7.5, and 10 t ha-1 with a zero control and an optimal control of NPK 20.10.10 at 200kgha-1. The treatments were 14 which were laid out in RCBD and replicated thrice. The effect of the compost manures was assessed on the growth, yield, and yield components of Okra in two seasons. Results: The results indicated that Compost1, Compost 2, and Compost 3 at a rate of 10 t ha-1 produced significantly (P<0.05) the tallest plants with the least height in the zero control. The leaf area result indicated that Compost1, Compost 2, and Compost 3 at 10 t ha-1 and NPK 20.10.10 produced the largest leaves and highest number of fruits per plant. Fruit yield was highest (P<0.05) in Compost1 at 10 t ha-1 in 2020 and 2021 (8.6t ha-1 and 8.8t ha-1), respectively and the least in the zero control. Conclusion: The result from this study showed that the integration of cocoa pod husk, Moringa leaf, and poultry droppings in composted form is a suitable organic amendment for optimal production of okra in Nigeria-derived savanna.   Highlights ·       The study was to evaluate cocoa pod husk-based compost with moringa leaves and poultry droppings on the growth and yield of okra ·       Three composts: cocoa pod husk + moringa leaves + poultry droppings, cocoa pod husk + moringa leaves, and cocoa pod husk + poultry droppings composted at the ratios of 3:1:1, 3:1,and  3:1, respectively at the rates of 2.5, 5.0, 7.5, 10 t/ha and NPK 20:10:10 at 200 kg/ha with a zero control were laid out in the field under randomized complete block design (RCBD) in three replications. ·       Data collected were plant height, leaf area, number of fruits per plant, and fruit yield per unit area. ·       Results obtained indicated that the three composts at the rate of 10 t/ha produced the tallest plants over the control. The leaf area was the largest in the three composts at the rate of 10 t/ha and the inorganic N: P: K at 200 kg/ha. Compost 1(cocoa pod husk + moringa leaves + poultry droppings) at the rate of 10 t/ha produced the highest fruit yield (8.6 and 8.8 t/ha), respectively, for the 2020 and 2021 cropped years over the inorganic NPK 20:10:10. ·        The combination of cocoa pod husk, moringa leaf, and poultry droppings in compost at the rate of 10 t/ha is a suitable organic amendment and a substitute for the inorganic NPK fertilizer for the optimum yield of okra in Nigeria-derived savanna.