Comparative Study of Various Agrowaste Derived Composts on Soil Aggregate Size Distribution and Stability

Abstract

The application of organic amendments derived from agricultural waste offers a sustainable method to improving soil structure and fertility. This study evaluated the effects of various agrowaste-derived composts i.e., vegetable wastes compost, fruit Vegetable waste compost, fruit wastes compost, wheat straw compost and sugarcane baggasse compost—on soil aggregate size distribution, mean weight diameter (MWD), aggregate stability index (ASI), and key soil chemical properties. A completely randomized design was employed with five treatments, including a control, under laboratory conditions. The results showed that all compost treatments significantly enhanced macroaggregate (>2.0 mm) formation and reduced microaggregate (<0.25 mm) fractions compared to the control. The highest MWD (1.15 ± 0.03 mm) and ASI (65.2 ± 1.0%) were recorded in the mixed compost treatment, indicating superior soil structural stability. Compost application also significantly increased soil organic carbon, total nitrogen, and available phosphorus, while moderating soil pH and electrical conductivity within optimal ranges. The mixed compost consistently outperformed single-source composts across all parameters, likely due to its diverse nutrient profile and greater stimulation of microbial activity. These findings underscore the potential of diversified compost formulations to enhance both physical and chemical soil health. Incorporating such composts into soil management practices can improve soil resilience, nutrient availability, and long-term agricultural sustainability.