INDEX
INTRODUCTION
ABSTRACT
MATERIALS AND METHODS
OBSERVATION AND DATA COLLECTION
PHOTOS
COST BENEFIT ANALYSIS
CONCLUSION
INTRODUCTION
Organic fertilizers are natural substances derived from plant or
animal materials that are used to improve soil fertility and
provide essential nutrients to plants. Unlike synthetic or
chemical fertilizers, organic fertilizers are made from renewable
resources and are considered environmentally friendly. They play
a vital role in organic farming and gardening practices, as they
promote sustainable and ecologically sound agriculture.
Organic fertilizers are composed of various organic matter, such
as compost, animal manure, bone meal, blood meal, fish
emulsion, and seaweed. These materials are rich in essential
nutrients like nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K),
along with other micronutrients necessary for plant growth.
One of the significant advantages of organic fertilizers is that they
improve the structure and moisture-holding capacity of the soil.
They increase microbial activity and enhance the soil's ability to
retain water, allowing plants to access nutrients more efficiently.
Organic fertilizers also contribute to the development of beneficial
soil organisms, such as earthworms and bacteria, which aid in
nutrient cycling and overall soil health.
Another important aspect of organic fertilizers is their slow-
release nature. Unlike synthetic fertilizers that release nutrients
quickly, organic fertilizers gradually break down and release
nutrients over time. This slow-release mechanism ensures a
steady supply of nutrients to plants, reducing the risk of nutrient
leaching and minimizing the potential for soil and water
pollution.
Furthermore, organic fertilizers promote long-term soil fertility.
They help build organic matter in the soil, increase its cation
exchange capacity (the soil's ability to hold and exchange
nutrients), and improve overall soil structure. This leads to
sustainable agricultural practices that support healthy plant
growth, reduce the need for chemical inputs, and protect the
environment.
Organic fertilizers are also preferred by many consumers due to
their potential benefits for human health. Since they are derived
from natural sources, organic fertilizers reduce the risk of
chemical residues in food crops, making them a popular choice
for organic food production.
In summary, organic fertilizers are natural, renewable
substances that provide essential nutrients to plants while
improving soil fertility and structure. They offer numerous
benefits, including sustainable agriculture, environmental
protection, slow-release nutrient supply, and potential human
health advantages. Incorporating organic fertilizers into farming
and gardening practices can contribute to healthier plants,
improved soil quality, and a more sustainable future.
ABSTRACT
On June 15th, 2023, I began my project. To
develop the final composition, it had taken me
42 days. The composition's quality is good.
The finished compost weighs a total of 1 kg.
The soil and our crops benefit from organic
manure. Wastes generated by each sector rise
along with the population. Therefore, zero
waste management programs are put into
place as a proactive measure to effectively
reduce trash. For the production of manure,
all necessary parameters were met. The
compost starts to form on July 2nd, 2023. I
am grateful to MG University for providing me
with this invaluable opportunity and
experience.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
LOCATION OF COLLEGE AND STUDENT
I recently completed my organic manure-making at
MARANGATTUPILLY. My name is SUCHITHRA P.S,
and I attend BVM Holy Cross College in Cherpunkal.
METHOD SELECTED
Garden pot composting.
COMPOSTING INOCULUM SELECTED
Inoculum made by using 1 glass of curd mixed with
50gm of jaggery and this is diluted with two glasses
of water.
BROWN MATTER USED
Dry wastes like dry leaves, coconut husk, newspaper
scrap.
POT PREPARATION
1.KITCHEN WASTE COMPOSTING
2.GARDEN POT COMPOSTING
Select a pot that's big enough to hold your
compost and has drainage holes at the
bottom.
Add a layer of brown material (such as
dried leaves), followed by a layer of green
material (such as vegetable scraps), and
then a layer of soil.
Water your compost regularly to keep it
moist but not too wet.
Using a garden fork or shovel, turn your
compost every few weeks to help it break
down faster.
Depending on the materials you use, it
can take anywhere from a few weeks to
several months for your compost to fully
decompose.
Once your compost is dark and crumbly,
it's ready to use in your garden!
OBSERVATIONS AND DATA
COLLECTION
TABLE 1: OBSERVATIONS
SI.No DATE COLOUR NATURE SMELL MOISTURE
1. 17/06/2023 NO Solid dry No Moisty
2. 23/06/2023 Light Slurry No Moisty
brown
3. 27/07/2023 Brown Slurry No Moisty
4. 16/07/2023 Dark Crushy No Dryness
brown
5. 20/07/2023 Dark Crushy No Dryness
brown
TABLE 2: PROCESS OF GARDEN POT FILLING
KITCHEN BROWN WASTE INOCULUM
WASTE AND AND USED
APPROXIMATE APPROXIMATE
WEIGHT WEIGHT
14/06/2023 Vegetable peel- 600gm Dry leaf -700 g diluted solution of
the mixture of curd
and jaggery
14/06/2023 Banana peel – 300gm Banana peel – 300gm ”
14/06/2023 egg shell and fruits paper piece – 30
waste - 200gm
”
PHOTOS
COST BENEFIT ANALYSIS
Slurry production undergoes cost-benefit analysis, which is
a widely used economic tool to evaluate investment returns.
In this case, the production utilizes easily accessible
materials like vegetable and fruit peels, dried leaves,
eggshells, flowerpots, newspapers, and an inoculum
sourced from the surrounding area with minimal effort.
Creating an inoculum by diluting curd and jaggery with
water ensures a cost-effective manufacturing process.
Consequently, this approach offers substantial advantages,
such as enhanced soil fertility, nutrient richness, and
efficient waste management.
A cost-effectiveness analysis demonstrates positive
outcomes and environmental benefits resulting from the
adoption of this sustainable fertilizer production method. By
utilizing readily available resources and minimizing
expenses, this technique provides a practical and profitable
solution for organic fertilizer production. Beyond waste
reduction, it also promotes soil health and supports
sustainable agricultural practices. Therefore, cost-
effectiveness analyses emphasize the positive effects of this
method, making it an appealing choice for individuals
seeking economic and environmental benefits in their
agricultural pursuits.
CONCLUSION
In conclusion, organic fertilizers offer numerous benefits and
advantages for agricultural practices. Through the use of natural
materials such as compost, manure, and plant-based
substances, organic fertilizers provide essential nutrients to
plants while also improving soil health and fertility. These
fertilizers contribute to sustainable farming by minimizing
environmental impacts, reducing chemical runoff, and promoting
biodiversity.
A cost-benefit analysis of organic fertilizers highlights their
economic viability, considering factors such as the cost of organic
fertilizers compared to synthetic alternatives, nutrient content
and effectiveness, soil health improvement, and environmental
impact. While organic fertilizers may have some drawbacks, such
as higher transportation costs and slower release rates, their
long-term benefits in terms of soil quality and reduced soil
degradation outweigh these limitations.
Furthermore, the market demand for organic produce, along with
the potential for premium pricing and organic certification,
presents economic opportunities for farmers using organic
fertilizers. The integration of organic fertilizers into agricultural
practices supports sustainable development goals and aligns with
consumers' growing preference for environmentally friendly and
healthier food options.
Overall, the use of organic fertilizers represents a practical and
profitable solution for promoting sustainable agriculture,
improving soil fertility, and reducing environmental harm.
Incorporating organic fertilizers into farming practices
contributes to a more resilient and sustainable food production
system, benefiting both farmers and consumers alike.
