APPLICATION OF SPECIAL LIQUID FERTILIZER FROM ORGANIC WASTES TO PROMOTE GROWTH AND PRODUCTIVITY OF RED CHILLI PLANTS (CAPSICUM ANNUUM L.)NNUUM L.)

Abstract

Zero waste management program (Masaro) offers a solution to process fruit, vegetable, and food waste. They were fermented at 32oC using two types of opaque plastic bioreactors with volumes of 60 L (first 14 days of fermentation) and 120 L (next 14 days of fermentation), respectively. The product of fermentation is a special liquid fertilizer. In this study, the fertilizer is applied to promote the growth and productivity of red chilli plants (Capsicum annuum L.) for 77 days. The macro and micronutrients in the fertilizer were analyzed using atomic absorption spectroscopy. The microorganisms and the amino acids therein were also characterized. The results inform that 5 mL/L of special liquid fertilizer signifies the average height increase and leaves area enlargement of the chilli plants. The presence of rhizobacteria in the fertilizer is responsible for promoting plant growth and enhancing plant productivity. In addition, this concentration of the fertilizer provides one week earlier of flowering and fruit production, with the highest number of chilli flowers and fruits reaching 28 and 19. Conclusively, the special liquid fertilizer has shown positive impacts on crop production and quality, with lower production costs. It is also effective, sustainable, eco-friendly, and can be applied in various agricultural sectors.