Composting as a sustainable option for converting undesirable weeds like Parthenium hysteropherous, Solanum nigrum, Calotropis procera and Trianthema portulacastrum into organic manure

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Composting is the natural process of transforming organic wastes, such as leaves and food scraps, into fertile manure that can enrich the soil with humus, helpful bacteria, and critical plant nutrients, thus enhancing soil fertility and structure. India's soil today is low in organic matter and nutrients, particularly micronutrients. Compost includes 2% nitrogen, 0.5–1.0% phosphorus, around 2% potassium, and trace amounts of all critical micronutrients. Biodegradable weeds, including Parthenium hysterophorus, Solanum nigrum, Calotropis procera, and Trianthema portulacastrum, were degraded using the Bangalore pit compost method. The fresh vegetation of Parthenium, Solanum, Calotropis and Trianthema for making compost were collected from nearby localities of Mullana village from November, 2022 to April 2023. As a result, applying compost to soil increases organic matter and enhances soil fertility, restoring minerals and organic matter lost during harvesting. It also enhances the chemical, physical, and biological qualities of the soil, increasing crop output. Compost increases the soil's water holding capacity, which reduces crop water requirements and irrigation frequency. The nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and carbon-to-nitrogen ratios of the compost were measured every 20 days for up to 100 days. The results demonstrate that compost has a high calcium, nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium content but a lower carbon and nitrogen ratio.