International Journal of Environment and Climate Change

Banana pseudostem, an abundant by-product of banana cultivation, is nutrient-rich yet often discarded, leading to environmental challenges. This study investigated the bioconversion of banana pseudostem into value-added bio-manure through aerobic heap composting over 60 days, using seven treatment combinations with cow dung, vegetable waste, paddy straw, and a biomineralizer. Physicochemical parameters (pH, EC, organic carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, sodium, and C:N ratio) and microbial populations (bacteria, fungi, actinomycetes) were monitored at 15-day intervals. Results revealed that enriched treatments—particularly banana pseudostem with vegetable waste, cow dung, and biomineralizer (T5), and banana pseudostem with paddy straw, cow dung, and biomineralizer (T7)—achieved optimal compost maturity, with final C:N ratios of 16:1 and 15:1, high nutrient concentrations (up to 0.90% N, 0.34% P, 2.41% K), and significantly elevated microbial counts. Organic carbon declined markedly, while pH and EC rose to levels favorable for soil application). Evaluation of compost maturity and stability through phytotoxicity bioassay and humification analysis confirmed that the enriched composts were agriculturally safe. Germination index values exceeded 80% in co-composted treatments, whereas the control (banana pseudostem alone) recorded only 55%, indicating incomplete stabilization. The findings demonstrate that strategic co-composting of banana pseudostem with complementary substrates and microbial inoculants produces stable, nutrient-rich compost, offering an eco-friendly alternative to synthetic fertilizers, reducing waste, and promoting sustainable agriculture.