Valorization of Chrysanthemum morifolium 'Fubaiju' agricultural by-products: From multi-omics profiling to biodegradable materials and biofertilizer development

Agricultural by-products from Chrysanthemum morifolium 'Fubaiju' cultivation represent 70–80 % of total biomass yet remain underutilized despite potential bioactive compounds and industrial applications. This study aimed to develop an integrated valorization framework transforming Fubaiju waste into high-value products through systematic phytochemical profiling and targeted processing technologies. Multi-omics analysis was conducted on 102 samples from seven cultivation regions using HPLC-DAD and ICP-MS. Stem cellulose (58.2 ± 2.3 % content) was extracted via alkaline peroxide method and processed into biodegradable films through solution casting. Root extracts underwent controlled fermentation with defined microbial consortia for biofertilizer development. Leaves contained exceptionally high 3,5-O-dicaffeoylquinic acid (39.0 ± 2.1 mg/g DW), exceeding previously reported values in medicinal plants; Phytochemical profiles demonstrated remarkable stability across regions (Coefficient of Variation<15 %); Stem-derived films exhibited tensile strength of 23.7 ± 1.8 MPa, comparable to commercial bioplastics, with 95 ± 3 % biodegradation within 12 weeks; Root-derived biofertilizers increased crop yields by 18–24 % while reducing chemical fertilizer requirements by 50 % in field trials; Economic analysis revealed benefit-cost ratios of 6.1–8.0 across valorization pathways. This integrated approach transforms agricultural waste into commercially viable products for pharmaceutical, packaging, and agricultural sectors, demonstrating a scalable biorefinery model with quantified environmental benefits including 40–50 % synthetic fertilizer reduction and complete waste utilization. • Leaves contain 39.0 mg/g DW of 3,5-O-dicaffeoylquinic acid. • Stem-derived cellulose produced films with 23.7 MPa tensile strength. • Root biofertilizers increased crop yields by 18–24 %. • The phytochemical profiles remained stable across regions (CV< 15 %). • All pathways showed benefit-cost ratios of 6.1–8.0.