BIOCONVERSION OF WATER HYACINTH INTO MATURE COMPOST AND ITS EFFECT ON GROWTH PROMOTION OF CHILI

Abstract

The research seeks to offer a sustainable solution for managing water hyacinth infestations while simultaneously producing a valuable resource in the form of manure compost. The successful implementation of this approach can have significant implication for mitigating the adverse effects of invasive aquatic plants, improving soil fertility and fostering a more environmentally friendly approach to waste management and agriculture. Composting of WH with cowdung (CD) was done to produce a nutrient rich organic soil amendment. Composting of WH with CD was done at four combinations (WH:CD, 1:0, 1:1, 1:3 and 3:1). Prepared compost was analyzed for maturity as well as nutrient elements. Experiment was carried out to assess the effect of compost on germination and growth promotion of chili. Optimum electric conductivity (4.46 mS/cm -1 ), bulk density (0.47 g cm ) and germination index (93.34) were observed in T 3 where WH:CD ration was 1:3. Organic carbon, P, K and Na content was higher in WH compost amended with CD. WH in combination with CM (WH:CD, 1:3) may be efficiently used through composting. Application of CD amended with WH compost at 10 t-ha. yielded optimum seedling establishment, plant growth and development.