Physicochemical and Microbiological Evaluation of Mango Residue Based Composts for Use as Organic Fertilizers in Vegetable Cropping Systems of Northern Côte d’Ivoire

Abstract

Background: Mango is highly perishable and difficult to store, which results in considerable post-harvest losses and the accumulation of unutilized waste. Composting these residues represents an ecological strategy to restore soil fertility. Objective: This study aims to contribute to the valorization of mango residues through the production of compost, in order to assess their fertilizing value and promote the recycling of post-harvest losses. Methods: The experiment was conducted in the city of Korhogo, located in the northern region of Côte d’Ivoire. The methodology consisted of producing two types of composts (C1 and C2) from mango residues, using three composting techniques (pile, pit, and bin), resulting in a total of six different composts (C1T, C2T, C1F, C2F, C1C, and C2C). The composting duration, physicochemical properties, maturity tests, and microbiological characteristics of these composts were evaluated. Results: Compost C1T exhibited a reduced composting duration (72 days), confirming its compliance with regulatory quality standards. Physicochemical analyses indicated that the composts produced were mature and stable. They contained adequate levels of essential mineral nutrients, with higher values observed for compost C1T (pile method), averaging 0.57% N, 0.83% P, and 1.92% K. C1T also showed an optimal C/N ratio of 16.67 and a slightly alkaline pH (7.83), both favorable characteristics for enhanced agronomic quality. The composts C1T and C1F achieved the highest germination rates (93.33%), statistically superior to the other treatments, thereby confirming their agronomic effectiveness. Microbiological analyses further confirmed the complete absence of pathogenic organisms (Escherichia coli, coliforms, Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella spp.), thus demonstrating compliance with regulatory standards for compost quality and safety. Conclusion: Compost C1, produced from mango residues combined with cow dung, demonstrated the best performance. The pile composting technique emerges as an effective agro‑ecological solution, enhancing long‑term soil fertility and promoting the local valorization of post‑harvest losses.