Comparative analysis of Baglog waste management and effect on bok choy (Brassica rapa var. chinensis) plant

Purpose: This study was conducted to compare BSF larvae flooding technique and goat manure application for baglog waste bioconversion. The compared parameters were the effectiveness of technique, the quality of compost produced, and the suitability as a growing media and nutrients supplier. Method: A total of four treatments were applied to assess the bioconversion process and the resulting compost quality. The effectiveness of compost application as a growing media and nutrient supplier for cultivating Bok choy (Brassica rapa var. chinensis) was also evaluated. Results: The results showed that the highest waste reduction percentage was found in treatment P2 (D = 54.48%; WRI = 2.59%/day). Furthermore, BSF larvae flooding technique was identified as the most effective in reducing the fly population index. Goat manure application in treatment P4 (-0.2) yielded the lowest odor of hedonic scales. The quality of compost produced by all treatments was analyzed, and the results showed conformity with the Indonesian National Standard for N, P, K, and Ca content. Bok choy cultivated using compost treatment P2 had the highest plant height (16.3 ± 1,5 b cm), leaves count (13 ± 2 a leaves), wet weight (187.7 ± 5,8 b g). Conclusion: BSF larvae flooding technique was more effective in reducing the fly population index and provided a significant reduction in baglog and food waste. On the other hand, goat manure application was more effective in reducing odor levels. Compost produced by treatment P2 showed the best growth parameters for cultivating bok choy. Research Highlights • Baglog waste can be effectively reduced through the bioconversion process by using two methods, i.e., BSF larvae flooding technique and goat manure application. • The bioconversion process produced compost that conformed with SNI 19-7030-2004 regulation for N, P, K, and Ca, except for pH and C/N ratio. • The BSF larvae flooding technique (used a very large quantity of BSF larvae) tends to be more effective to reduce the fly population index, to accelerate the baglog and also for the bioconversion food waste into compost. • Utilize BSF larvae and goat manure for enhanced agricultural output and implementing a circular economy. • Baglog waste is able to absorb the water content of waste to minimize unpleasant odors.