Effect of spent bleaching earth based bio organic fertilizer on growth, yield and quality of eggplants under field condition

Abstract

Spent bleaching earth (SBE) is a solid waste generated from the bleaching process in palm oil industry. This solid waste is currently disposed directly in landfills without treatment, causing severe water and air pollution. Recently, dumping of SBE in landfills or public disposal sites has been prohibited in most countries. Meanwhile, high costs associated with the large area of land needed for storage of the residue has lead to the interest in regenerate SBE. Thus, a recent novel approach has been carried out on the utilization of SBE in agriculture as an alternative method for disposal. In this study, a field experiment was conducted at an experimental plot in Plant House National University Malaysia to evaluate the effect of SBE on the growth and quality of eggplant. Growth and quality parameters of eggplant including total fruit yield, total biomass, macronutrients concentration of leaf were studied through close monitoring and assessment. Field trials conducted showed that SBE is effective in promoting eggplant growth and nutrient uptake compared to the control treatment under field conditions. Therefore, with the proper and effective ways in handling SBE through conversion of SBE into beneficial bio organic fertilizer, this material which is a waste in the past will become an advantage in agriculture as a substitute for commercial fertilizers. © 2014 AIP Publishing LLC.