MAHATMA GANDHI UNIVERSITY

NSS HINDU COLLEGE, CHANGANACHERRY

PROJECT REPORT

SEMESTER I

MOOC COURSE
 ORGANIC MANURE MAKING

Submitted by : S Sivahari
Class number - 615
Permanent Registration Number - 210021032764

Submitted to : Aswathy S Nair

Assistant professor
Post Graduate and Research Department of
Mathematics
NSS Hindu College, Changanacherry
 CONTENTS

• Introduction

• Report of the Project

• Kitchen Waste Compost

• Photo Gallery

• Conclusion
 INTRODUCTION

Organic farming has gained immense popularity worldwide due to their

numerous environmental and health benefits. Central to these practices
is the use of organic manure, which plays a vital role in enhancing soil
fertility and promoting sustainable agriculture.

Organic manure, also known as organic fertiliser, is derived from

plants, animals or their by products. It is composed of organic matter
that decomposes over time and releases essential nutrients into the soil
making it more fertile. Unlike synthetic fertilisers, organic manure is
free from harmful chemicals and has a holistic approach to soil
enrichment. There are various types of organic manure used in India.
Some of the common types are farmyard manure, vermicompost, green
manure, bone meal, fish emulsion etc.

Organic manure is produced through a process called composting.

Composting is the natural decomposition of organic materials by
microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi and earthworms in the presence
of oxygen. This process breaks down the organic matter into stable,
nutruient-rich humus which can be used to improve soil fertility and
enhance plant growth.

The basic steps involved in making organic manure is listed below :

1. Collecting a variety of oganic materials by such as kitchen scraps,

yard waste, leaves, grass clippings, straw, livestock waste and
crop residues. These materials provide a balanced mix of carbon
(browns) and nitrogen (greens) necessary for composting.

2. Selecting a suitable location for the compost pile or bin. It can be

a corner of the garden or a dedicated composting area. Ensure
good drainage and aeration.
 3. Layering the organic materials in the composting area. Alternate
between the carbon-rich brown materials (e.g. dried leaves, straw
etc.) and nitrogen-rich green materials (e.g. kitchen scraps, fresh
grass clippings etc.). It is important to maintain a balance of 3
parts of brown to 1 part of green by volume.

4. Keeping the compost pile moist, similar to a damp sponge. If it

becomes too dry, sprinkle water to maintain proper moisture
level. Additionally, turn or aerate the pile periodically using a
garden fork or compost turning tool to provide oxygen and to
ensure even decomposition.

5. Monitoring the temperature to ensure it stays within the range of

120⁰ F to 160⁰ F (49⁰ C to 71⁰ C). This helps kill pathogens and
weed seeds.

6. Regularly checking the moisture content and adjusting if

necessary.

The composting process typically takes several months to a year

depending on factors such as materials used, the size of the pile and the
management practices. The compost is ready when it has a dark,
crumbly texture, with a pleasant earthy smell and no recognizable
organic materials.

Once the compost is fully decomposed, it can be used as a nutrient-rich

soil amendment. It improves soil structure, enhances moisture retention
and provides essential nutrients for plant growth. Use the compost by
incorporating it into garden beds, mixing it with potting soil or applying
it as a top dressing around plants.
Some of the benefits of organic manure is listed :

1. The right distribution of nutrients is ensured. By composting, the

nutrients remain intact and there is little loss of nitrogen.

2. Composting provides an organic fertilizer pellet with a high

moisture-absorbing capacity (upto three times its own weight). As
a result less water will be wasted and water consumption is saved.

3. It can be stored easily for a longer period – approximately 5 years

in a closed package in a well ventilated and moisture-free
environment.

4. The nutrients in organic fertilizers are released slowly making

them available for the crop during cultivation.

5. Composting ensures the ammonium to be converted to a more

stable form of nitrogen. The nitrogen is released slowly,
eliminating the risk of leaf or root burning.

6. The organic fertilizers can be used at any type of soil and can be
applied throughout the year.

7. Can be spread manually or mechanically with ordinary machinery,

also during growing season. This decreases mineral washout and
improves growth.

Organic manure is thus a sustainable and environment-friendly way to

enrich the soil and support healthy plant growth. By recycling organic
waste through composting, we contribute to reducing waste, improving
soil health and minimizing the use of harmful synthetic fertilizers.
 REPORT

I, S Sivahari of Mathematics Department at NSS Hindu College,

Changanacherry, have done a project on Organic Manure Making as

part of Mahatma Gandhi University’s MOOC. This project was done at

my residence (Thittamel, Chengannur). As per the instructions by the

University, we were assigned to make organic manure.

 KITCHEN WASTE COMPOST

Kitchen waste composting is the act of using our kitchen waste and
food scraps, which are organic materials (greens and browns), to create
compost benefitial for enriching soil and growing plants and crops.
Composting kitchen waste is a highly sustainable method. In addition,
expert knowedge is not required in the process. Anyone can start
making a compost pit.

Materials required

1. Kitchen waste – It includes vegetable and fruit peels, eggshells,

fish waste etc.

2. Bio bins – They hold the kitchen waste. Micro pores on the bin
walls ensure aeration that facilitates microbial activity. Bio bins
can be earthen pots, polypropylene pots, PVC pipes of about 200
mm diameter. I have selected PVC pipe.

3. Composting inoculums – Inoculants are products that contain

living microorganisms such as bacteria, yeasts and fungi.
Microorganisms play important roles in helping to decompose
the organic matter and in nutrient cycle and plant health.
Inoculants can be used to add beneficial microorganisms to a
situation to get a specified biological process. Composting
inoculums are consortia of microflora that can easily decompose
vegetable and food wastes. They include bacterial and fungal
strains. Talc based and coir based inoculums are also available.
The compost once produced can also be used as inoculum.
Steps to make kitchen waste compost

1. Collecting kitchen waste – Designate a container in your kitchen

specifically for collecting organic waste. This can be a small bin
or pail with a lid to prevent odors and keep pests away. Place it
conveniently in your kitchen to make it easy to dispose of scraps
as you cook or clean up.

2. Seperating compostable materials – Ensure that only compostable

materials end up in your kitchen waste container. Avoid meat,
dairy products, oily or greasy items that can attract pests and take
longer to decompose. Stick to vegetable and fruit scraps, coffee
grounds, tea leaves, crushed eggshells and similar organic
materials.

3. Carbon-rich additives – To maintain a balanced compost pile, add

carbon-rich materials often referred to as the ‘browns’. These
include dried leaves, shredded paper, straw or sawdust. Layering
these with the kitchen waste helps to create the ideal carbon-to-
nitrogen ratio for composting.

4. Compost bin or pile : Choose a suitable composting system based

on your available space and preferences. You can use a compost
bin, tumbler or even create a simple compost pile in your
backyard. Ensure proper aeration and drainage for the compost to
thrive.
5. Moisture and aeration : Compost requires moisture to facilitate the
decomposition process . Ensure that your compost pile is consistently
moist, similar to a damp sponge. If it becomes too dry, sprinkle water
to maintain the right moisture level.

Composting duration : The duration for kitchen waste composting can

vary depending on factors like the materials used, the composting
system and management practices. Typically one can expect the
compost to be ready within a few months. The finished compost has a
dark, crumbly structure and the organic materials should no longer be
recognisable.
Benefits

Composting kitchen waste offers several benefits, both for the

environment and for personal gardening endeavours. Here are some
key advantages of kitchen waste compost :

1. Waste reduction : Composting kitchen waste diverts organic

materials from ending up in landfills, where they contribute to
methane gas emissions. By composting, you reduce the
amount of waste that goes to the landfills, thereby reducing
greenhouse gas emissions and conserving landfill space.

2. Nutrient-rich soil amendment : Kitchen waste compost is a

valuable source of nutrients for your garden. The compost
enriches the soil by providing the essential macronutrients
(nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium) as well as micro
nutrients required for plant growth. It improves soil structure,
moisture retention and nutrient-holding capacity.

3. Soil fertility and health : Adding kitchen waste composst to

your soil enhances its fertility over time. The organic matter in
the compost increases beneficial microbial activity, improves
soil structure and promotes a healthy soil ecosystem. Thus
leads to better nutrient availability, root development and
overall plant health.
4. Water retension and erosion control : Compost helps retain soil
retain moisture by improving its water-holding capacity. It
reduces water run-off and promotes better absorption, thus
mitigating the risk of soil erosion. By improving soil structure
and water retention, compost can help conserve water in your
garden.

5. pH balance and nutrient availability : Kitchen waste compost

can help balance soil pH levels. It acts as a natural buffer,
making soil less acidic or alkaline, depending on the needs of
your plants. Additionally, compost enhances nutrient
availability by improving the soil’s ability to retain and release
nutrients to plants.

6. Suppressing plant diseases and pests : Compost contains

beneficial microorganisms and fungi that help suppress
harmful pathogens and pests in the soil. These microorganisms
can compete with disease-causing organisms, providing a
natural defense mechanism for your plants and reducing the
need for chemical pesticides.

7. Sustainable gardening practice : Composting kitchen waste is

a sustainable gardening practice that promotes a circular
economy. By recycling organic materials, you close the loop
on food waste and contribute to a more sustainable and
environmentally friendly approach to gardening.
 8. Cost savings : Making your own kitchen waste compost
reduces the need to purchase synthetic fertilizers and soil
amendments. By utilizing what would have been waste, you
save money on buying commercial products while still
providing your plants with the necessary nutrients for growth.

9. Educational opportunities : Composting kitchen waste

provides an educational opportunity for children and adults
alike. It teaches the importance of waste reduction, recycling,
and the natural cycles of decomposition. It can also foster a
deeper connection with nature and a sense of environmental
responsibility.

Composting kitchen waste is a practical and eco-friendly way to

manage organic materials while reaping numerous benefits for your
garden. It helps create healthier soils, reduce waste, conserve resources,
and support sustainable gardening practices.
Defects

While kitchen waste composting offers numerous benefits, there are

some potential defects or challenges that can arise. Here are a few:

1. Odor issues: Improperly managed kitchen waste compost can

generate unpleasant odors. Certain food scraps, especially if not

balanced with enough carbon-rich materials (browns), can

release strong odors during decomposition. Odors may attract

pests such as flies or rodents. However, proper management,

including regular turning, proper layering, and adequate carbon-

tonitrogen ratios, can help minimize odor issues.

2. Pest attraction: Inadequate management of kitchen waste

compost can attract pests such as flies, ants, rats, or raccoons.

This is especially true if meat, dairy, or oily/greasy items are

added to the compost pile, as they can be more enticing to pests.

To prevent pest problems, avoid adding these items and ensure

proper layering, turning, and covering of the compost.

3. Slow decomposition: Some kitchen waste materials, such as

citrus peels, avocado skins, or large pieces of food scraps, may

decompose more slowly compared to others. This can lengthen

 the composting process and delay the availability of finished

compost. Chopping or shredding larger scraps and balancing

them with a mix of smaller, easily decomposable materials can

help speed up the process.

4. Nutrient imbalances: Without proper attention to carbon-to-

nitrogen ratios, kitchen waste compost can become imbalanced

in nutrient content. Too much nitrogen-rich material (greens)

without enough carbon-rich material (browns) can result in a

compost pile that is too “hot” and may lead to nutrient loss

through leaching. It’s important to maintain a balanced ratio of

kitchen waste to carbon-rich materials to ensure nutrient

availability and proper decomposition.

PHOTO GALLERY
 CONCLUSION

In conclusion, organic manure production is a sustainable and

environmentally friendly approach to enhance soil fertility and promote

healthy plant growth. It involves the decomposition of organic

materials such as crop residues, animal manure, and food waste through

natural processes. Organic manure provides essential nutrients to plants

while improving soil structure and waterholding capacity. It also

encourages beneficial soil microorganisms, reduces chemical inputs,

and minimizes the negative impact on ecosystems. By utilizing organic

manure, farmers can adopt a more ecologically sound and sustainable

approach to agriculture, resulting in improved crop yields, reduced

environmental pollution, and long-term soil health.