IMPACT OF AGRICULTURAL PRACTICES: USE OF ORGANIC AMENDMENTS KITCHEN WASTE ON SOIL MICROBIAL COMMUNITIES IN LOCAL FARMS

This study investigates the impact of kitchen waste-derived organic amendments on soil microbial communities and agricultural productivity. Specifically, it examines how organic materials, including yam peels, plantain peels, potato peels, eggshells, and rice waste, influence the diversity, proliferation, and activity of soil microbes. Soil samples were collected from the University of Port Harcourt farm, Nigeria, and subjected to different organic amendments in a controlled experimental setup. Microbial enumeration, morphological, and biochemical characterization techniques were employed to identify and quantify soil bacteria and fungi. Results revealed that organic amendments significantly increased microbial populations, with the highest bacterial count recorded in yam peel and eggshell mixtures, and the highest fungal count in potato peel and rice waste mixtures. The study identified various bacterial species, including Bacillus sp., Pseudomonas sp., Klebsiella sp., and Escherichia coli, as well as fungal species such as Aspergillus sp., Penicillium sp., and Mucor sp., which were all associated with enhanced nutrient cycling and organic matter decomposition. Physicochemical analysis of the amended soils showed improvements in pH, nitrate, and phosphate levels, supporting the role of organic amendments in soil fertility. The findings affirm the potential of kitchen waste as an alternative to chemical fertilizers, contributing to sustainable agricultural practices. This study highlights the importance of promoting organic waste recycling in agriculture to improve soil health, microbial diversity, and crop productivity. The research provides insights into the positive effects of organic amendments on soil microorganisms and lays the groundwork for future studies on the long-term benefits of kitchen waste in agricultural systems.