Investigating the Role of Stirring in Composting of Goat Manure with Application of Corncob Biochar

Purpose: The abundance of corncob waste has not been optimally utilized and tends to be thrown away and left to decompose. The utilization of corncobs processed into biochar in the composting process is a topic that needs to be explored. In addition, dependence on external bio-activators in the composting process can be reduced with the application of biochar as an indigenous material. In this context, the objective of this study was to know the effect of corncob biochar application and stirring on the quality of goat manure organic fertilizer. Method: A randomized Complete Block Design with the first factor of no application and application of 10% biochar based on weight of goat manure and the second factor of being without stirring or with weekly stirring was tested, and each treatment was repeated five times. The observed variables were pH, temperature, humidity, water content, and chemical characteristics viz. C-organic, N, P2O5, and K2O. Results: The addition of corncob biochar with or without stirring to the manure of goats produced better-quality organic fertilizer with the low relative humidity, and high contents in C-organic, N, and K. Conclusion: composting using corncob biochar with or without stirring resulted in better-quality composting by using corncob biochar with or without stirring resulted in a better-quality organic fertilizer compared to composting without biochar application based on regional and national standards supported by WHO such as those in Canada, USA and Europe. Highlight · Converting corncob to biochar is a promising strategy in agricultural waste management. · Biochar could apply as an indigenous material in the composting process. · The addition of corncob biochar can minimize the nutrient loss during the process of composting of goat manure. · Stirring the pile during composting process apparently does not affect the nutrient content of the compost especially for goat manure. The better quality of goat manure compost has been resulted by application of biochar.