The effect of turning frequency on the compost dynamics and quality derived from empty fruit bunches, <i>Azolla microphylla</i>, and active organic fertilizer

The composting process of palm oil empty fruit bunches (EFB) and Azolla microphylla, supplemented with active organic fertilizer (AOF), presents an alternative method for utilizing solid palm oil mills waste.The purpose of this study is investigate the turning frequencies effect during composting on the degradation rate of EFB and Azolla microphylla using AOF in a basket composter to produce high-quality compost.The process involves cutting EFB to 1-3 cm pieces, mixing it with Azolla microphylla in an 80:20 ratio, and adding AOF to achieve an optimal moisture content (MC) of 55-65%.MC is maintained at these levels by periodically adding AOF.The turning frequencies tested include once per day, every 2 days, every 3 days, every 4 days, and every 5 days.Analyzed parameters were temperature, MC, pH, water holding capacity (WHC), volatile suspended solids, electrical conductivity (EC), and C/N ratio.Results indicate it takes 30 days to generate compost, with the optimal degradation of EFB and Azolla microphylla achieved at a turning frequency of once every 2 days, yielding values of pH 8.7, MC 55.72%, WHC 77%, EC 2746 S/cm, and a C/N ratio of 14.83.