Production of a Potential Liquid Biofertilizer via Aerobic Composting of Mixed Fruit Peels and Evaluation of its Efficacy on Vigna mungo* L.

Abstract

Fertilizers are extensively used to replenish soil nutrients and maximize crop yields. They are broadly classified into two types: organic and synthetic fertilizers. In recent years, there is increasing attention to the valorisation of agricultural waste, particularly the bioconversion of fruits and vegetable peels into value-added agricultural products such as organic liquid fertilizers. This approach not only reduces the waste accumulation but also contributes to a sustainable product for agricultural purposes. In this present study, the five different fruit peels (Citrus sinensis, Citrus limetta, Ananas cosmos, Citrus limon, and Citrullus lanatus) were chosen to produce “Fruit Peel Organic Liquid Fertilizer” (FPOLF) through aerobic composting. The physicochemical properties of the aerobically composted fertilizers (F1, F2, F3, F4 and F5) were assessed, and their effects on seed germination and crop performance were also investigated using Vigna mungo L. plants through the pot culture method. Among the formulations, the combination of fruit peels and rice water (F2) exhibited superior plant growth and biochemical parameters. Treatment with FPOLF showed improved effects on shoot length, root length, shoot biomass, root biomass, total shoot biomass, leaf length, leaf breadth, germination rate, and germination index. Additionally, biochemical parameters such as carbohydrate, chlorophyll, and protein contents were found to increase in the crops treated with FPOLF. Overall, FPOLF improved crop performance, enhanced soil health, and promoted circular waste management in agriculture, particularly for smallholder and organic farming systems.