Co-compostaje de residuos de pitahaya provenientes del cantón Palora-Morona Santiago

Abstract

The main objective of the current research was to elaborate compost through the co-composting process of Pitahaya residues obtained from the plantations belonging to Palora County-Morona Santiago through turning piles. As methodology, it used a mixed research approach with an explanatory and descriptive level. In the research design used the organic carbon contained in the biodegradable solid wastes added to the compost; promoting a highly active decomposition process and an increase in temperature. The pitahaya wastes were co-composted with the husk individually in order to evaluate the effects of these organic wastes that are available in Palora County. Each co-composting material was mixed with cow dung waste, chicken manure and Takakura seed at a wet weight ratio of 1:1 being composted for 104 days. Results showed that all co-composting materials accelerated in the final product: total carbon degradation and resulted in higher levels of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and potassium (K). The mixture achieved the most rapid total carbon loss, reaching the minimum temperature required for pathogen destruction. Finally, it was concluded that the final product was the best source of potassium K, obtaining a higher pH which could be used for the remediation of acid soils therefore; it recommends the use of co-composting to reduce the amount of waste and take advantage of its nutrients to generate a product that serves as an aid for soils.