Decomposition of sugarcane bagasse by Trichoderma

Abstract

Sugarcane bagasse, an end-product after extraction of the juice of the sugarcane, was composted with the aid of <i>Trichoderma</i>, a compost fungus activator which shortens the decomposition process of farm wastes. Decomposition process was observed through the changes in temperature and substrate consistency. An average of 94 days was noted for a complete decomposition of 900 kg bagasse. Analysis of bagasse compost gave 0.78% nitrogen, 4.94% phosphorus, in the form of P2O5 and 1.55% potassium, in the form of K 2O. It showed that composted bagasse is a good source of phosporus but poor in nitrogen and potassium. The compost, nevertheless, can also be a good soil conditioner.