Evaluation of the physicochemical characteristics of composts produced from various local organic materials in Korhogo, Northern Côte d’Ivoire

The valorization of organic waste through composting can constitute a sustainable alternative for managing agricultural residues and improving soil fertility under different cropping systems. This study aimed to characterize and compare the physicochemical properties of three composts produced from different local organic materials in Korhogo, with a view to their use for improving soil fertility. Three compost types were prepared: peanut shells and cattle manure (C1), coffee grounds and sawdust (C2), and mango residues and cattle manure (C3). After 90 days of heap composting, the composts were analyzed for physicochemical characteristics (pH, electrical conductivity, organic matter, total carbon, moisture content, and C/N ratio), major nutrients (N, P, K, Ca, and Mg), and trace metal elements. Significant differences were observed among composts for all parameters studied. C1 had the highest total nitrogen content (1.52% DM) and an alkaline pH (8.5), whereas C2 had the highest moisture content (48.40% DM) and potassium content (62.94 mg kg⁻¹ DM). C3 had the highest phosphorus (822.56 mg kg⁻¹ DM), calcium (449.28 mg kg⁻¹ DM), magnesium (39.16 mg kg⁻¹ DM), and micronutrient contents. Trace metal concentrations remained low in all composts and were compatible with agricultural use. These results confirm that feedstock composition influences the agronomic quality of composts.