Effect of composted municipal solid waste and npk fertilizer on the growth and yield of maize (zea mays l)

Thesis Abstract

Abstract
The utilization of composted municipal solid waste (CMSW) as an organic fertilizer has gained significant attention due to its potential to enhance soil fertility and crop productivity. This study aimed to investigate the effect of composted municipal solid waste in comparison to NPK fertilizer on the growth and yield of maize (Zea mays L.). A field experiment was conducted using a randomized complete block design with four treatments T1 (Control), T2 (100% NPK fertilizer), T3 (100% CMSW), and T4 (50% NPK fertilizer + 50% CMSW). The parameters assessed included plant height, number of leaves, stem girth, days to tasseling, days to silking, cob length, cob diameter, number of grains per cob, 1000-grain weight, and grain yield. The results showed that the application of CMSW, either solely or in combination with NPK fertilizer, significantly improved the growth parameters of maize compared to the control. Plants treated with CMSW exhibited increased plant height, more leaves, and larger stem girth. Additionally, the days to tasseling and silking were reduced in the CMSW-treated plants, indicating accelerated reproductive development. The cob length, diameter, number of grains per cob, and 1000-grain weight were also higher in the CMSW-treated plants, leading to a substantial increase in grain yield. Furthermore, the combined application of 50% NPK fertilizer and 50% CMSW resulted in comparable growth parameters and yield to the 100% NPK fertilizer treatment, demonstrating the potential of integrating organic and inorganic fertilizers for sustainable maize production. This synergistic effect could be attributed to the balanced nutrient supply from both sources, promoting optimal plant growth and development. Overall, the results suggest that composted municipal solid waste can be a viable alternative to synthetic fertilizers for maize cultivation, offering environmental benefits through waste recycling and reducing reliance on chemical inputs. Incorporating CMSW into agricultural practices not only enhances soil health and crop productivity but also contributes to waste management and sustainability goals. Further research is recommended to explore the long-term effects of CMSW application on soil fertility and crop productivity, as well as to assess its impact on the nutritional quality of maize grains.