The Effect of Biofertilizer from Waste Bioconversion on the Growth of Cocoa Seedlings

Abstract

Organic waste can be a source of environmental pollution if not managed properly. The organic waste transformed by Black Soldier Fly (BSF) larvae produces liquid biofertilizer (LB) containing nutrients and beneficial microbes for plants. This study aims to determine the effect of dosage and frequency of application of liquid biofertilizer on the growth of cocoa seedlings and soil properties. The experiment used a randomized complete block design with seven treatments and four replications. The treatments were a control, LB 3% every two weeks, LB 3% every four weeks, LB 6% every two weeks, LB 6% every four weeks, LB 12% every two weeks, LB 12% every four weeks. The results showed that LB 6% every four weeks was the best treatment in increasing seedling height, stem diameter, and weight of fresh shoot, dry shoot, and dry roots of cocoa seedlings at 20 weeks old compared to other treatment. The application of LB significantly increased soil pH, but not significantly affected on the content of organic C, total N, available P and exchangeable cations at soil. Biofertilizer from bioconversion of organic waste using BSF larvae is suitable to improve the growth of cocoa seedlings.