Abstract

Sadik M.W , Al Ashhab A.O , Zahran M.K , Alsaqan F.M

The main objective of the current study is to produce high quality organic fertilizer in large scale using abundant energy resources (Date palm trees mulch produced from grinded leafs, trunks and roots) from local farms. Date palm trees mulch (DPM) was mixed with fresh farmyard manure (FYM) as nitrogen source. The mixtures were prepared by using 3 ratios (w/w) of 1:1, 2:1 and 3:1 (DPM : FCM).The C/N ratios were 44.3:1, 50:1 and 44:1 for mixtures 1, 2 and 3, respectively. Turned windrow method was applied in the composting process. The results showed that the temperature was increased up to 66, 69 and 68οC for mixtures 1, 2 and 3, respectively and then decreased to 44, 45 and 45 οC by the end of the composting period for the above 3 mixtures. The final organic fertilizer had natural soil odor and brown in color. The final organic fertilizer C/N ratio recorded as 25:1, 12.5:1 and 23:1 for mixtures 1, 2 and 3 respectively. The loss in organic matter was also reached to 15.6 (mix 1), 29.54 (mix 2) and 20.00 % (mix3). The results found for mixtures of 2 and 3 were better than mixture 1, therefore these mixtures are considered to be the best for composting date palm trees mulch . Regulated elements (N, P, K, Organic matter, pH, electrical conductivity, and TDS) were improved in all mixtures. The end product was free of salmonella, total coliform and faecal coliform bacteria.