Study on the Effect of Fecal Sludge and Sewage Sludge Application on the Growth and Production of Capsicum

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This study explores the potential of FS and SS as sustainable fertilizers for agricultural applications, addressing the dual challenges of waste management and reducing dependency on chemical fertilizers. Using a randomized complete block design (RCBD), Capsicum annuum was cultivated under four treatments: FS, SS, compost, and control, with growth and yield parameters such as plant height, root and stem diameter, biomass, and fruit characteristics analyzed. FS treatment demonstrated superior performance in plant height (325.8 ± 36.52 mm), root diameter (338.35 ± 218.54 mm), and fruit wet biomass (182.10 ± 155.83 g), though differences among treatments were statistically insignificant (p > 0.05). Control plots showed earlier flowering (40.01 ± 1.34 days) and larger fruit dimensions, while SS treatments underperformed, likely due to heavy metal contaminants. Compost treatment showed moderate results, enhancing soil structure and microbial activity. This research underscores the viability of FS as an effective alternative to chemical fertilizers, contributing to sustainable agriculture and circular economies. Capsicum Compost Fecal Sludge Sewage Sludge and Sustainable Agriculture Figures Figure 1 Figure 2 Figure 3 Figure 4 Figure 5 Figure 6 Figure 7 Figure 8 1. INTRODUCTION Fecal Sludge (FS) and Sewage Sludge (SS) are growing issues in developing countries since sanitation facilities aren’t easily available. Approximately 30% of the global population, or 2.3 billion people, lack access to basic sanitation services, and poor sanitation leads to infectious diseases, which exacerbate malnourishment and result in several hundred thousand fatalities per year[ 1 ]. Due to a hundred thousand deaths per year, the United Nations has defined the Millennium Development Goal and Sustainable Development Goal to provide improved sanitation facilities adequately and equitably. Thus, this has increased by 2.7 billion accessed by onsite sanitation systems[ 2 ]. Rapid urbanization, lack of skilled manpower, and financial constraints have raised the problem of sludge disposal [ 3 ]. The generated fecal and sewage sludge from onsite and offsite sanitation systems are directly disposed of into the environment and water bodies, resulting in public health and environmental risks. It is estimated that 99% of fecal coliform, 85% of Escherichia coli (E. coli) , and 7% of diarrheagenic E. coli are found in ready-to-eat salad where the local vegetables are irrigated with untreated sewage water[ 4 ]. Compared to municipal wastewater, FS typically contains more than 10 times the amount of organic and pathogenic contamination [ 2 ]. There are different modes of treatment plants for both fecal sludge and sewage sludge as per their characteristics of sludges. SS and FS are rich in organic matter and nutrient content, which can be used as an innovative mode for resource recovery, like fertilizer for agricultural land[ 5 ] . In Nepal, the generated volume of fecal sludge is 2925m3/day [ 6 ]. Generally, 130g of feces and 1.4 L of urine are generated by humans. Bhaktapur, a city rich in cultural heritage, is also facing the problem of fecal and sewage sludge management. About 8% of the population is connected to onsite sanitation systems, and the remaining are discharged directly into water bodies and open fields. Improper disposal enhances the adaptation of fecal sludge management (FSM). FSM includes the process from the user interface, emptying, conveyance, disposal, and reuse of sludge. Each sanitation chain has different responsibilities, so the proper implementation of FSM has been very challenging [ 7 ]. Treated fecal and sewage sludge can improve soil fertility, structure, and microbial activity, leading to more resilient agricultural systems [ 8 ]. Globally, agricultural techniques are changing to become more ecologically friendly and sustainable. The demand for food production rises along with the world's population, calling for creative ways to increase crop yields and guarantee resource efficiency. In this context, the potential benefits of recycling organic waste, particularly sewage and fecal sludge, as fertilizers in agriculture have drawn attention [ 9 ]. Nepal has a unique agricultural landscape where studies on capsicum may optimize capsicum cultivation. Capsicum annum is a major cash crops which have both economic and nutritional benefits. The cultivation of Capsicum annum to be treated by FS and SS may provide an opportunity to use it as a fertilizer. Capsicum annum is a fruiting plant from the family Solanaceae within the genus Capsicum , which is native to the northern region of South America and southwestern North America. Capsicum ( Capsicum annuum ), also known as bell pepper, is an important vegetable crop associated with its nutritional benefits and economic significance [ 10 ]. It is profitable, especially when the producer and processing sector add value to the product or because it employs a significant number of skilled laborers [ 11 ] It contains high levels of vitamins A and C, antioxidants, and other vital nutrients [ 10 ]. The height of the plant is 90 cm to 100 cm. The crop is ready in 65 days after sowing. Peppers require monthly temperatures ranging from 21 to 30°C, with an average of 18°C [ 12 ]. Plants require an adequate supply of nitrogen, which promotes plant and fruit growth. Because of the plant’s canopy, most cultivars require a wide spacing for proper growth. Proper insect, disease, and weed control extends the fruit harvest for longer periods, lowering losses [ 13 ]. Economically, Capsicum annuum is an important crop in the agricultural economy, bringing money to farmers in various places. The plant is also an important part of many cultures' culinary traditions, where it is used to add flavor and heat to meals, both fresh and dried. In addition to its culinary and nutritional use, Capsicum annuum has been explored for its medicinal characteristics, particularly the capsaicin component found in the spicier species, which is utilized in pain relief and weight control products. Overall, Capsicum annuum's value stems from its numerous applications, which contribute to food security, economic stability, and health [ 14 ]. 2. METHODOLOGY 2.1. Research Framework The schematic diagram for the study process is given below: 2.2. Study Area The field experiment of the study was carried out at Sipadol, Bibicha, Suryabinayak Municipality - 08, Bhaktapur, Nepal. The coordinates pinpointed the precise locations of the four corners of the study area, i.e. P1 = 27.656475°N, 85.440457°E, P2 = 27.656405°N, 85.440588° E, P3 = 27.656293°N, 85.440533° E and P4 = 27.656366° N, 85.440395° E which is 1338 m above the sea level. The location is 1.8km far from Jagati, Bhaktapur. 2.3. Soil Sampling and Analysis The soil samples were collected from the selected field at a depth of 15cm using auger. The soil properties were measured before transplanting the seedlings and after harvesting at the lab. 2.4. Fecal Sludge and Sewage Sludge Collection The FS was collected from the Lubu Fecal Sludge Treatment Plant (FSTP), and the SS from the Guheswori Waste Water Treatment Plant (WWTP). 2.5. Crop and Variety Selection The "Ganga" variety of Capsicum annuum was selected as the test crop for the study. According to the Package of Practices for Vegetable Crops prepared by the Nepal Agricultural Study Council (NARC): For Central Hills: Plantation Time: January – March Seed Rate: 20 to 25 g seeds per Ropani Planting distance: 60 cm x 45 cm (Row-Row x Plant-Plant) Table 1 : Variety, sources, and Types of Capsicum SN Varieties Types Sources Status 1 Ganga F1 East Wets Seed Popular variety for farmers (non-registered) 2.6. Types of Fertilizer The fecal sludge, sewage sludge, and compost manure were collected from Lubu FSTP, Guheswori WWTP, and Bhaktapur Municipality’s Compost Plant, respectively, and were used as Treatment Four (T4), Treatment Three (T3), and Treatment Two (T2). The control, i.e., no use of any fertilizer, has been taken as Treatment (T1). The types of fertilizer used are: Treatment 1 (T1) = Control (No fertilizer is being used) Treatment 2 (T2) =Application of Compost Manure as a Nutrient supplement Treatment 3 (T3) = Application of Sewage Sludge as Nutrient supplement Treatment 4 (T4) = Application of fecal sludge as a Nutrient supplement 2.7. Experimental setup 2.7.1. Field Experiment The study was carried out using a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with four blocks having one replication of each treatment in each block (fecal sludge, sewage sludge, control unit, and compost manure). In RCBD, the principle of local control is adopted, and the experimental material is subdivided into subgroups known as blocks. The block made in the experimental field may have uniform characteristics, so each treatment option should appear in each group to influence the response. Layout: The field is divided into four blocks, called A, B, C, and D, each with four plots. Each plot in these blocks is assigned one of four treatments: T1, T2, T3, or T4. Block A comprised of T1R1, T2R1, T3R1, and T4R1. Block B comprised of T1R2, T2R2, T3R2, and T4R2. Similarly, Block C contained T1R3, T2R3, T3R3, and T4R3, whereas Block D contains T1R4, T2R4, T3R4, and T4R4. These blocks correspond to various treatment types: control (T1), compost (T2), sewage (T3), and feces (T4). As a result, each block comprises all treatment options with different replications. Treatments were allocated at random to the plots of the block. Nine seedlings were included in each plot or treatment option. The planting distance specification was arranged as per the Package of Practices for Vegetable Crops prepared by NARC, specifying a row-to-row spacing of 60 cm and a plant-to-plant spacing of 45 cm. 2.7.2. Work Procedure Field activities included a selection of uniform sites followed by land preparation, including plowing, harrowing, and leveling. Once the field was ready, it was divided into sixteen plots using string and stakes. Each plot's bed was set up before the seedlings were transplanted, and treatments were randomly assigned to plots within each block to eliminate bias, and plots were clearly labeled with treatment. The soil in each plot was mixed with several treatment alternatives by NARC specifications. Each plot was treated with 200:100:100 kg/ha of Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium. The seedlings were watered with 0.5 liters of water per day after transplanting. Regular maintenance activities such as irrigation, weeding, and pest control were conducted uniformly across all plots to maintain consistency. After 1 week of transplanting seedlings, mulching was done with chopped straws in the plots to enhance water retention and protect the seedlings from extreme drought. Since the plants were too tiny to gather data, they were collected every two weeks for a month and once a week thereafter. Every treatment plot was top-dressed 30 days after the day the seedlings were transplanted into the plots throughout the study period, and 2 nd top dressing was conducted 2 months after planting. For every plant, 200 grams of manure were weighed and incorporated into the soil. To achieve immediate outcomes in between sessions, the top dressing was applied a total of two times. During the study period, different insect pests, like red spider mites, aphids, thrips, and beetles, and diseases like fusarium wilt damping off were observed. Acaricide was used against red spider mites, and Azadirachtin was used against other insect pests. After 65 days of transplanting the seedlings, the capsicum was harvested, and the plants were weeded. 2.7.3. Plant observation The physiological growth parameters of Capsicum, like the number of leaves, leaves biomass, height, stem diameter, root length, root diameter, fruit biomass, fruit length, fruit diameter, and plant biomass, were measured at the time of harvesting. 2.7.4. Data Collection The data were collected every two weeks for a month and once a week thereafter for the leaves and height of plants. Another growth parameter of capsicum was observed after harvesting. The fruit’s diameter and length were observed before placing it in the oven. All the harvested fruits were placed in an oven at 105°C for 24 hrs. The stem diameter and root diameter were observed, and the leaves and stem with roots on the oven to 105°C for 24 hrs. The biomass of leaves and stems with roots are observed separately. 2.8. Calculation procedure 1. ANOVA test Hypothesis The null and alternative hypotheses are formulated as follows: H 0 ’ = the row means are equal H ’ 1 = the row means are not all equal H ” 0 = the column means are equal H ” 1 = the column means are not all equal Level of significance α = 0.05 ANOVA Table Table 2: Analysis Table for two-way ANOVA Source of variance Degree of freedom Sum of squares Mean square Statistic Row means r-1 SSR S 1 2 = SSR/(r-1) F 1 = s 1 2 /s 3 2 Column means c-1 SSC S 1 2 = SSR/(c-1) Errors (r-1) (c-1) SSE S 1 2 = SSR/(c-1) (r-1) F 2 = S 2 2 /S 3 2 Total rc-1 SST where, r = rows c = columns SSR = Squares for Row SSC = Squares for Column SSE = Square for Error SST = Square for total F 1 = statistics for row effects F 2 = statistics for column effects 2.9. Data analysis Micro-soft, i.e., excel, was used for data input and simple statistical analysis, and R package was used for statistical analysis. ANOVA test was done at a 0.05% level of significance. Treatment means that were found to be significantly different from each other were separated by Duncan tests. 3. RESULT AND DISCUSSION 3.1. Chemical Characteristics of Soil The chemical characteristics of soil indicate the overall soil health, soil fertility, and plant growth, which may be influenced by different factors. Regular soil testing and monitoring help in soil improvement and management. The chemical characteristics of the soil were determined before transplanting the seedlings and after harvesting. The chemical properties such as pH, Nitrogen, phosphorus, Potassium, carbon, and organic matter of soil were tested. The chemical properties of soil are shown in the table below: Table 2 Chemical characteristics of soil SN Parameter Initial soil test After harvest 1 pH 6.7 5.87 2 Nitrogen (%) 0.11 0.05 3 Potassium (%) 0.034 0.008 4 phosphorous (%) 0.01 0.042 5 SOM% 3.64 0.98 6 Carbon% 2.11 1.01 The bar chart above shows a comparison of soil properties before and after harvesting. The nitrogen concentration of the soil decreased significantly from 0.1148–0.05%, while potassium levels decreased dramatically from 0.03375–0.00872%. Interestingly, the phosphorus content increased from 0.00722–0.0417%. Soil Organic Matter (SOM) dropped from 3.64–0.98%, suggesting a loss of organic content in the soil. The carbon content dropped from 2.11–1.01%. According to [ 46 ] Nitrogen levels declined from 0.1148–0.05%, most likely due to plant absorption and microbial activity, whereas phosphorus levels grew from 0.00722–0.0417%, probably due to organic matter mineralization in the applied treatments. This is consistent with findings from other research in which organic amendments were proven to boost phosphorus availability. 3.2. Nutrient Analysis of Fecal Sludge and Sewage Sludge Before application as a treatment on seedlings, the chemical properties of the sludge were analyzed. Chemical properties like pH, nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, carbon, and organic matter of sludge were measured, as shown in the table below. Table 3 Nutrient analysis of fecal sludge and sewage sludge SN Parameter Fecal Sludge Sewage Sludge 1 pH 6.1 5.8 2 Nitrogen (%) 1.25 0.11 3 potassium (%) 0.39 0.19 4 phosphorous (%) 0.05 0.043 5 SOM% 45.56 50.46 6 Carbon% 26.42 29.26 3.3. Effects of Treatment on various parameters The study conducted in capsicum by application of different treatment options (T1 = Control, T2 = Compost Manure, T3 = Sewage Sludge, and T4 = Fecal Sludge) is analyzed by the impact on the plant growth, i.e., number of leaves, plant height, fruits, and plant biomass, root diameter, root length, stem height, stem diameter, and soil parameters. Statistical analysis of the physical parameters was done and represented in the table below. 3.4. ANNOVA Analysis of all parameters: Table 4 ANNOVA Analysis of effect on all the parameters measured Parameter ANNOVA P value F test LSD CV% SEM Grand Mean Effect on Number of Leaves 0.49 Not significant at P < 0.05 14.04 26.29 4.39 33.40 Effect on Wet Leaves Biomass 0.88 Not significant at P < 0.05 71.91 67.51 22.20 66.59 Effect on Dry Leaves Biomass 0.94 Not significant at P < 0.05 18.45 97.23 5.16 11.86 Effect on Overall Plant Height after harvest 0.44 Not significant at P < 0.05 61.60 12.81 19.25 300.625 Effect on Root Diameter 0.3 Not significant at P < 0.05 179.51 46.90 56.11 239.30 Effect on Stem Diameter 0.09 Not significant at P < 0.05 1.77 9.29 0.55 11.95 Effect on Stem and Root wet Biomass 0.93 Not significant at P < 0.05 165.56 41.05 51.75 252.11 Effect on Stem and Root dry Biomass 0.37 Not significant at P < 0.05 93.96 75.77 26.26 77.52 Effect on Plant standing length 0.32 Not significant at P < 0.05 47.64 15.38 14.89 193.63 Effect on Fruit wet Biomass 0.84 Not significant at P < 0.05 198.27 88.95 55.43 139.34 Effect on Fruit dry Biomass 0.69 Not significant at P < 0.05 36.08 96.68 10.09 23.33 Effect on Fruit diameter 0.08 Not significant at P < 0.05 9.36 17.56 2.617 33.31 Effect on Fruit length 0.07 Not significant at P < 0.05 9.32 16.71 2.61 34.89 Effect on Day of first flowering Not significant at P < 0.05 14.04 18.21 3.93 48.22 The application of fecal sludge (FS), sewage sludge (SS), compost, and control treatments had distinct impacts on the growth and yield parameters of the Capsicum annuum . FS consistently showed superior performance in plant height, root diameter, stem diameter, wet biomass, and standing length due to its high nutrient content, particularly nitrogen and phosphorus, which are essential for vegetative growth and structural robustness. Additionally, the organic matter in FS improved soil water retention and microbial activity, contributing to increased wet and dry biomass. These observations align with similar studies that highlight the benefits of nutrient-rich organic fertilizers [ 16 , 48 ]. Control plots, on the other hand, exhibited the earliest flowering and the largest fruit length and diameter. This is likely a stress-induced response, where nutrient deficiency accelerates flowering and reduces competition, resulting in larger but fewer fruits. Similar findings have been reported, emphasizing the role of nutrient stress in triggering early reproductive stages in plants. Compost and SS treatments showed moderate performance, with SS underperforming in several parameters [ 11 ]. The reduced growth in SS-treated plants may be due to contaminants such as heavy metals, including cadmium and lead, which interfere with nutrient uptake and physiological processes [ 44 ]. High salinity in untreated or partially treated SS can also create osmotic stress, further inhibiting plant growth [ 53 ]. In Nepal, approximately 2925 cubic meters of fecal sludge are generated daily from onsite sanitation systems, yet most of this waste remains untreated, leading to significant environmental and public health issues [ 5 ]. Bhaktapur, a densely populated heritage city, exemplifies these challenges, with only 8% of the population connected to sanitation systems and the remainder relying on traditional methods [ 45 ]. However, properly treated FS has immense potential in agriculture, as demonstrated in pilot studies conducted in Kathmandu Valley, where FS improved soil fertility and crop yields, offering a sustainable alternative to chemical fertilizers [ 3 ]. FS provides a cost-effective solution for farmers in Nepal, where agriculture employs over 65% of the population [ 9 ]. Unlike chemical fertilizers, which are expensive and heavily reliant on imports, FS is locally sourced, reducing costs and dependency. Furthermore, it enhances soil structure, microbial activity, and nutrient availability while supporting a circular economy by turning waste into a valuable resource [ 32 ]. These advantages make FS a practical and environmentally sustainable alternative to inorganic fertilizers, which are associated with soil degradation and environmental harm [ 42 ]. The integration of FS into agricultural practices aligns with successful models in South Asia, particularly in India, where fecal sludge treatment plants are increasingly coupled with nutrient recovery systems [ 30 ]. These systems not only address waste management challenges but also contribute to resource-efficient farming. Developing countries like Nepal, where fecal sludge management is a major challenge, can adopt similar strategies to maximize the benefits of FS, improve agricultural sustainability, and reduce their reliance on costly chemical fertilizers. Despite these promising outcomes, variability in FS-treated plants, as indicated by high coefficients of variation (CV%), highlights the need for further research with larger sample sizes and more controlled conditions. Long-term studies should also explore the environmental and economic implications of scaling up FS use in agriculture to ensure its feasibility and sustainability. This research aligns closely with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), by addressing fecal sludge management as well as SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) by turning waste into a resource, emphasizing the importance of circular economies in reducing environmental footprints and enhancing resource efficiency. 4. CONCLUSION This study highlights the potential of fecal sludge (FS) and sewage sludge (SS) as sustainable alternatives to conventional fertilizers for Capsicum annuum cultivation. FS treatment demonstrated improved plant height, biomass, and stem robustness, while control treatments showed advantages in fruit size. Despite no statistically significant differences among treatments, the trends suggest FS's superior ability to enhance soil fertility and plant growth. Properly treated sludge can reduce reliance on chemical fertilizers, contributing to sustainable agriculture by improving waste management and resource efficiency. Future studies should focus on long-term impacts, environmental safety, and economic feasibility to optimize the use of these alternative fertilizers. Declarations ACKNOWLEDGEMENT I highly acknowledge the Department of Civil Engineering, Kathmandu University, for providing constant support throughout the research. Center of Environmental Safeguards and Occupational Safety for agricultural safety guidance and support. DATA AVAILABILITY The datasets generated during and/or analyzed during the current study are available from the corresponding author on reasonable request. AUTHORS AND AFFILIATIONS Department of Civil Engineering, School of Engineering, Kathmandu University, Nepal Nisha Laghu Centre for Environmental Safeguards and Occupational Safety, Kathmandu University, Nepal Sunil Ranabhat, Ishwar Bhusal Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, School of Science, Kathmandu University, Nepal Bikash Adhikari CONTRIBUTIONS Bikash Adhikari contributed to conceptualization, experimentation, writing the draft, and reviewing; Nisha Laghu contributed to experimentation and analysis; Ishwar Bhusal and Sunil Ranabhat contributed to writing the draft, analysis, and visualization. CORRESPONDING AUTHOR Correspondence to Bikash Adhikari. FUNDING No funding was received for conducting this study. ETHICAL DECLARATIONS Clinical Number Not applicable. Consent to Participate Not applicable. Consent to Publish Not applicable. Competing Interest The authors declare that they have no conflict of interest. References Zewde AA, Li Z, Xiaoqin Z. 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Pandey SK, Yadav SK, Singh VK. An overview on Capsicum annuum L. L J Pharm Sci Technol. 2012;4(2):821–8. Shanmugavel D, Rusyn I, Solorza-Feria O, Kamaraj S-K. Sustainable SMART fertilizers in agriculture systems: A review on fundamentals to in-field applications. Sci Total Environ. 2023;904:166729. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.166729 . Septien S, et al. Effect of drying on the physical and chemical properties of faecal sludge for its reuse. J Environ Chem Eng. 2020;8(1):103652. Singh S, Mohan RR, Rathi S, Raju NJ. Technology options for faecal sludge management in developing countries: Benefits and revenue from reuse. Environ Technol Innov. 2017;7:203–18. Vista SP, Shrestha S, Rawal N. Fertilizers in Nepal. National Soil Science Research Centre, NARC, Khumaltar, Lalitpur, Kathmandu , 2022. Susana. Fecal Sludge Management: A Planning Manual for Cities, 2020. [Online]. Available: https://www.susana.org/_resources/documents/default/3-3808-7-1615279176.pdf . [Accessed: 13-Feb-2025]. Zere Taskin S, Bilgili U. Using Sewage Sludge as Alternative Fertilizer: Effects on Turf Performance of Perennial Ryegrass. Sustainability. 2023;15(18):13597. Tilley E, Ulrich L, Lüthi C, Reymond P, Zurbrügg C. (2014). Compendium of Sanitation Systems and Technologies (2nd Revised Edition). 10.13140/RG.2.1.2038.3840 Crops V. Package of Practices for Vegetable Crops pp. 777–91, 2020, [Online]. Available: www.narc.gov.np. Sharma VK, Srivastava A, Mangal M. Recent trends in sweet pepper breeding. Accel Plant Breed. 2020;2:417–44. Veg. Crop. Ibiza VP, Blanca J, Cañizares J, Nuez F. Taxonomy and genetic diversity of domesticated Capsicum species in the Andean region. Genet Resour Crop Evol. 2012;59:1077–88. Organization WH. Water and sanitation, 2020. Zhou H, Shi H, Yang Y, Feng X, Chen X, Xiao F, Lin H, Guo Y. Insights into plant salt stress signaling and tolerance. J Genet Genomics. 2023;51(1):16–34. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jgg.2023.08.007 . Additional Declarations No competing interests reported. Cite Share Download PDF Status: Posted Version 1 posted You are reading this latest preprint version Research Square lets you share your work early, gain feedback from the community, and start making changes to your manuscript prior to peer review in a journal. As a division of Research Square Company, we’re committed to making research communication faster, fairer, and more useful. We do this by developing innovative software and high quality services for the global research community. Our growing team is made up of researchers and industry professionals working together to solve the most critical problems facing scientific publishing. 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University","correspondingAuthor":false,"prefix":"","firstName":"Sunil","middleName":"","lastName":"Ranabhat","suffix":""},{"id":487979827,"identity":"c1e7face-d15e-435c-8cad-7fd26355e76e","order_by":2,"name":"Ishwar Bhusal","email":"","orcid":"","institution":"Kathmandu University","correspondingAuthor":false,"prefix":"","firstName":"Ishwar","middleName":"","lastName":"Bhusal","suffix":""},{"id":487979828,"identity":"529822d4-5da8-4103-b7e7-f1254882d631","order_by":3,"name":"Bikash Adhikari","email":"data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAAZAAAAAyAQMAAABI0h/eAAAABlBMVEX///8AAABVwtN+AAAACXBIWXMAAA7EAAAOxAGVKw4bAAAA/klEQVRIiWNgGAWjYBACA2Y2BgbGBgbGDSAGg4GNAUhUghQtaURoYYBpATEYGA4T1mLOzpb48ecOO9ntQMbnioLzxgYHmA/e5mG4k4dLi2Uz22Fp3jPJxjuBDMkzBrfNDA6wJVvzMDwrxumww+wN0oxtzIkbgAzJBoPbNgYHeMykeRgOJzbg1tL882dbPUhL888Gg3NALfzfCGhhOybB23YYqIXtGNCWA0CH8bDh1QL0S5o1b9txY6CWNMsGg2RjycNsxpZzDA7j9Is5/zHjmz/bqmU3nAcyGv7YGfYdb354403FYZwhhgUwgx3MkECCFiggQ8soGAWjYBQMUwAAr7lXx3xXLyYAAAAASUVORK5CYII=","orcid":"","institution":"Kathmandu University","correspondingAuthor":true,"prefix":"","firstName":"Bikash","middleName":"","lastName":"Adhikari","suffix":""}],"badges":[],"createdAt":"2025-05-30 09:23:03","currentVersionCode":1,"declarations":"","doi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-6783138/v1","doiUrl":"https://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-6783138/v1","draftVersion":[],"editorialEvents":[],"editorialNote":"","failedWorkflow":false,"files":[{"id":87282681,"identity":"d66d7436-2b90-491b-a6ad-b9ceff9d9939","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-07-22 09:56:45","extension":"jpg","order_by":1,"title":"Figure 1","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":81607,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cu\u003eFlow chart of the research framework\u003c/u\u003e\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"1.jpg","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-6783138/v1/9b06ccc728d694ba40ac6d92.jpg"},{"id":87283116,"identity":"0c42aca5-298a-49bb-b37b-4ce8ed5ec345","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-07-22 10:04:45","extension":"jpg","order_by":2,"title":"Figure 2","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":151135,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cu\u003eStudy area of capsicum\u003c/u\u003e\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"2.jpg","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-6783138/v1/df1950344838a4ddcb7912a9.jpg"},{"id":87283983,"identity":"bd4aab99-aedf-4431-b6fa-4caf7390c14b","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-07-22 10:12:45","extension":"jpg","order_by":3,"title":"Figure 3","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":56582,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cu\u003eRCBD Field layout of Capsicum\u003c/u\u003e\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"3.jpg","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-6783138/v1/d542d860a659757b8f491f83.jpg"},{"id":87282684,"identity":"e5600f85-f514-4f21-9638-42312090311f","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-07-22 09:56:45","extension":"jpg","order_by":4,"title":"Figure 4","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":127043,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cu\u003eChemical properties of Soil\u003c/u\u003e\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"4.jpg","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-6783138/v1/1ce7523406bf0cc6c8ea2a77.jpg"},{"id":87282692,"identity":"85b24642-e348-4850-8f9e-25c273703e2b","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-07-22 09:56:45","extension":"jpg","order_by":5,"title":"Figure 5","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":147100,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003eEffect of treatment on various parameters. \u003cstrong\u003eA.\u003c/strong\u003e Effect of treatment on total number of leaves after 8 weeks, \u003cstrong\u003eB.\u003c/strong\u003e Effect of treatment on Overall Height of the plants, \u003cstrong\u003eC.\u003c/strong\u003e Effect of treatment on Root Diameter of the plants, \u003cstrong\u003eD.\u003c/strong\u003e Effect of treatment on Shoot Diameter of the plants, \u003cstrong\u003eE. \u003c/strong\u003eEffect of treatment on Mean Plant Height, \u003cstrong\u003eF.\u003c/strong\u003eEffect of treatment on Fruit Diameter, \u003cstrong\u003eG.\u003c/strong\u003e Effect of treatment on Fruit Length, \u003cstrong\u003eH.\u003c/strong\u003e Effect of treatment on Days to First Flowering of the plants.\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"5.jpg","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-6783138/v1/c4e544e301479d1becc901cb.jpg"},{"id":87283120,"identity":"d177f9ed-882f-4d72-a123-cd1eccaf33d9","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-07-22 10:04:45","extension":"jpg","order_by":6,"title":"Figure 6","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":172603,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003eEffect of treatment on Fruit Biomass\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"6.jpg","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-6783138/v1/855fea66f8b31d6374e498b4.jpg"},{"id":87283119,"identity":"a55444bb-9cec-48e0-99c2-76cb18cd838d","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-07-22 10:04:45","extension":"jpg","order_by":7,"title":"Figure 7","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":153556,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003eEffect of treatment on Leaves Biomass\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"7.jpg","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-6783138/v1/76f671ab869cf985a9258a86.jpg"},{"id":87282693,"identity":"85edcc8b-5e7e-4e29-8c94-a27541f630c9","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-07-22 09:56:45","extension":"jpg","order_by":8,"title":"Figure 8","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":154004,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003eEffect of treatment on Plant Biomass\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"8.jpg","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-6783138/v1/fa151c5d493f9129aeb24014.jpg"},{"id":101467054,"identity":"05167501-10b3-4f9b-8303-10b6fe2adf8b","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2026-01-30 03:55:20","extension":"pdf","order_by":0,"title":"","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"manuscript-pdf","size":2055906,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"","description":"","filename":"manuscript.pdf","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-6783138/v1/26bb1985-74fd-4434-a402-3d8fb7594f87.pdf"}],"financialInterests":"No competing interests reported.","formattedTitle":"\u003cp\u003eStudy on the Effect of Fecal Sludge and Sewage Sludge Application on the Growth and Production of Capsicum\u003c/p\u003e","fulltext":[{"header":"1. INTRODUCTION","content":"\u003cp\u003eFecal Sludge (FS) and Sewage Sludge (SS) are growing issues in developing countries since sanitation facilities aren\u0026rsquo;t easily available. Approximately 30% of the global population, or 2.3\u0026nbsp;billion people, lack access to basic sanitation services, and poor sanitation leads to infectious diseases, which exacerbate malnourishment and result in several hundred thousand fatalities per year[\u003cspan citationid=\"CR1\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1\u003c/span\u003e]. Due to a hundred thousand deaths per year, the United Nations has defined the Millennium Development Goal and Sustainable Development Goal to provide improved sanitation facilities adequately and equitably. Thus, this has increased by 2.7\u0026nbsp;billion accessed by onsite sanitation systems[\u003cspan citationid=\"CR2\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2\u003c/span\u003e]. Rapid urbanization, lack of skilled manpower, and financial constraints have raised the problem of sludge disposal [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR3\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e3\u003c/span\u003e]. The generated fecal and sewage sludge from onsite and offsite sanitation systems are directly disposed of into the environment and water bodies, resulting in public health and environmental risks. It is estimated that 99% of fecal coliform, 85% of \u003cem\u003eEscherichia coli (E. coli)\u003c/em\u003e, and 7% of diarrheagenic \u003cem\u003eE. coli\u003c/em\u003e are found in ready-to-eat salad where the local vegetables are irrigated with untreated sewage water[\u003cspan citationid=\"CR4\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e4\u003c/span\u003e]. Compared to municipal wastewater, FS typically contains more than 10 times the amount of organic and pathogenic contamination [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR2\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2\u003c/span\u003e]. There are different modes of treatment plants for both fecal sludge and sewage sludge as per their characteristics of sludges. SS and FS are rich in organic matter and nutrient content, which can be used as an innovative mode for resource recovery, like fertilizer for agricultural land[\u003cspan citationid=\"CR5\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e5\u003c/span\u003e] .\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn Nepal, the generated volume of fecal sludge is 2925m3/day [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR6\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e6\u003c/span\u003e]. Generally, 130g of feces and 1.4 L of urine are generated by humans. Bhaktapur, a city rich in cultural heritage, is also facing the problem of fecal and sewage sludge management. About 8% of the population is connected to onsite sanitation systems, and the remaining are discharged directly into water bodies and open fields. Improper disposal enhances the adaptation of fecal sludge management (FSM). FSM includes the process from the user interface, emptying, conveyance, disposal, and reuse of sludge. Each sanitation chain has different responsibilities, so the proper implementation of FSM has been very challenging [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR7\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e7\u003c/span\u003e]. Treated fecal and sewage sludge can improve soil fertility, structure, and microbial activity, leading to more resilient agricultural systems [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR8\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e8\u003c/span\u003e]. Globally, agricultural techniques are changing to become more ecologically friendly and sustainable. The demand for food production rises along with the world's population, calling for creative ways to increase crop yields and guarantee resource efficiency. In this context, the potential benefits of recycling organic waste, particularly sewage and fecal sludge, as fertilizers in agriculture have drawn attention [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR9\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e9\u003c/span\u003e].\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eNepal has a unique agricultural landscape where studies on capsicum may optimize capsicum cultivation. \u003cem\u003eCapsicum annum\u003c/em\u003e is a major cash crops which have both economic and nutritional benefits. The cultivation of \u003cem\u003eCapsicum annum\u003c/em\u003e to be treated by FS and SS may provide an opportunity to use it as a fertilizer. \u003cem\u003eCapsicum annum\u003c/em\u003e is a fruiting plant from the family Solanaceae within the genus \u003cem\u003eCapsicum\u003c/em\u003e, which is native to the northern region of South America and southwestern North America. Capsicum (\u003cem\u003eCapsicum annuum\u003c/em\u003e), also known as bell pepper, is an important vegetable crop associated with its nutritional benefits and economic significance [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR10\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e10\u003c/span\u003e]. It is profitable, especially when the producer and processing sector add value to the product or because it employs a significant number of skilled laborers [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR11\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e11\u003c/span\u003e] It contains high levels of vitamins A and C, antioxidants, and other vital nutrients [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR10\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e10\u003c/span\u003e]. The height of the plant is 90 cm to 100 cm. The crop is ready in 65 days after sowing. Peppers require monthly temperatures ranging from 21 to 30\u0026deg;C, with an average of 18\u0026deg;C [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR12\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e12\u003c/span\u003e]. Plants require an adequate supply of nitrogen, which promotes plant and fruit growth. Because of the plant\u0026rsquo;s canopy, most cultivars require a wide spacing for proper growth. Proper insect, disease, and weed control extends the fruit harvest for longer periods, lowering losses [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR13\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e13\u003c/span\u003e]. Economically, \u003cem\u003eCapsicum annuum\u003c/em\u003e is an important crop in the agricultural economy, bringing money to farmers in various places. The plant is also an important part of many cultures' culinary traditions, where it is used to add flavor and heat to meals, both fresh and dried. In addition to its culinary and nutritional use, \u003cem\u003eCapsicum annuum\u003c/em\u003e has been explored for its medicinal characteristics, particularly the capsaicin component found in the spicier species, which is utilized in pain relief and weight control products. Overall, \u003cem\u003eCapsicum annuum's\u003c/em\u003e value stems from its numerous applications, which contribute to food security, economic stability, and health [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR14\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e14\u003c/span\u003e].\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"2. METHODOLOGY","content":"\u003ch2\u003e2.1.\u0026nbsp; Research Framework\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe schematic diagram for the study process is given below:\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e2.2.\u0026nbsp; Study Area\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe field experiment of the study was carried out at Sipadol, Bibicha, Suryabinayak Municipality - 08, Bhaktapur, Nepal. The coordinates pinpointed the precise locations of the four corners of the study area, i.e. P1 = 27.656475\u0026deg;N, 85.440457\u0026deg;E, P2 = 27.656405\u0026deg;N, 85.440588\u0026deg; E, P3 = 27.656293\u0026deg;N, 85.440533\u0026deg; E and P4 = 27.656366\u0026deg; N, 85.440395\u0026deg; E which is 1338 m above the sea level. The location is 1.8km far from Jagati, Bhaktapur.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e2.3.\u0026nbsp; Soil Sampling and Analysis\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe soil samples were collected from the selected field at a depth of 15cm using auger. The soil properties were measured before transplanting the seedlings and after harvesting at the lab.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e2.4.\u0026nbsp; Fecal Sludge and Sewage Sludge Collection\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe FS was collected from the Lubu Fecal Sludge Treatment Plant (FSTP), and the SS from the Guheswori Waste Water Treatment Plant (WWTP).\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e2.5.\u0026nbsp; Crop and Variety Selection\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe \"Ganga\" variety of \u003cem\u003eCapsicum annuum\u003c/em\u003e was selected as the test crop for the study. According to the Package of Practices for Vegetable Crops prepared by the Nepal Agricultural Study Council (NARC):\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor Central Hills:\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cu\u003ePlantation Time:\u003c/u\u003e January \u0026ndash; March\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cu\u003eSeed Rate:\u003c/u\u003e 20 to 25 g seeds per Ropani\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cu\u003ePlanting distance:\u003c/u\u003e 60 cm x 45 cm (Row-Row x Plant-Plant)\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cu\u003eTable \u003c/u\u003e\u003cu\u003e1\u003c/u\u003e\u003cu\u003e: Variety, sources, and Types of Capsicum\u003c/u\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"67\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSN\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"92\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVarieties\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"73\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTypes\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"99\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSources\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"271\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eStatus\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"67\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e1\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"92\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGanga\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"73\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eF1\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"99\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEast Wets Seed\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"271\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePopular variety for farmers (non-registered)\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e2.6.\u0026nbsp; Types of Fertilizer\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; The fecal sludge, sewage sludge, and compost manure were collected from Lubu FSTP, Guheswori WWTP, and Bhaktapur Municipality\u0026rsquo;s Compost Plant, respectively, and were used as Treatment Four (T4), Treatment Three (T3), and Treatment Two (T2). The control, i.e., no use of any fertilizer, has been taken as Treatment (T1). The types of fertilizer used are:\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003col\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTreatment 1 (T1) = Control (No fertilizer is being used)\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTreatment 2 (T2) =Application of Compost Manure as a Nutrient supplement\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTreatment 3 (T3) = Application of Sewage Sludge as Nutrient supplement\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTreatment 4 (T4) = Application of fecal sludge as a Nutrient supplement\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ol\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e2.7. Experimental setup\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e2.7.1.\u0026nbsp; Field Experiment\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe study was carried out using a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with four blocks having one replication of each treatment in each block (fecal sludge, sewage sludge, control unit, and compost manure). In RCBD, the principle of local control is adopted, and the experimental material is subdivided into subgroups known as blocks. The block made in the experimental field may have uniform characteristics, so each treatment option should appear in each group to influence the response.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLayout:\u003c/strong\u003e The field is divided into four blocks, called A, B, C, and D, each with four plots. Each plot in these blocks is assigned one of four treatments: T1, T2, T3, or T4. Block A comprised of T1R1, T2R1, T3R1, and T4R1. Block B comprised of T1R2, T2R2, T3R2, and T4R2. Similarly, Block C contained T1R3, T2R3, T3R3, and T4R3, whereas Block D contains T1R4, T2R4, T3R4, and T4R4. These blocks correspond to various treatment types: control (T1), compost (T2), sewage (T3), and feces (T4). As a result, each block comprises all treatment options with different replications. Treatments were allocated at random to the plots of the block. Nine seedlings were included in each plot or treatment option. The planting distance specification was arranged as per the Package of Practices for Vegetable Crops prepared by NARC, specifying a row-to-row spacing of 60 cm and a plant-to-plant spacing of 45 cm.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e2.7.2.\u0026nbsp; Work Procedure\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp; Field activities included a selection of uniform sites followed by land preparation, including plowing, harrowing, and leveling. Once the field was ready, it was divided into sixteen plots using string and stakes. Each plot's bed was set up before the seedlings were transplanted, and treatments were randomly assigned to plots within each block to eliminate bias, and plots were clearly labeled with treatment. The soil in each plot was mixed with several treatment alternatives by NARC specifications. Each plot was treated with 200:100:100 kg/ha of Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium. The seedlings were watered with 0.5 liters of water per day after transplanting. Regular maintenance activities such as irrigation, weeding, and pest control were conducted uniformly across all plots to maintain consistency. After 1 week of transplanting seedlings, mulching was done with chopped straws in the plots to enhance water retention and protect the seedlings from extreme drought. Since the plants were too tiny to gather data, they were collected every two weeks for a month and once a week thereafter. Every treatment plot was top-dressed 30 days after the day the seedlings were transplanted into the plots throughout the study period, and 2\u003csup\u003end\u003c/sup\u003e top dressing was conducted 2 months after planting. For every plant, 200 grams of manure were weighed and incorporated into the soil. To achieve immediate outcomes in between sessions, the top dressing was applied a total of two times. During the study period, different insect pests, like red spider mites, aphids, thrips, and beetles, and diseases like fusarium wilt damping off were observed. Acaricide was used against red spider mites, and Azadirachtin was used against other insect pests. After 65 days of transplanting the seedlings, the capsicum was harvested, and the plants were weeded.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e2.7.3.\u0026nbsp; Plant observation\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; The physiological growth parameters of Capsicum, like the number of leaves, leaves biomass, height, stem diameter, root length, root diameter, fruit biomass, fruit length, fruit diameter, and plant biomass, were measured at the time of harvesting.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e2.7.4.\u0026nbsp; Data Collection\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; The data were collected every two weeks for a month and once a week thereafter for the leaves and height of plants. Another growth parameter of capsicum was observed after harvesting. The fruit\u0026rsquo;s diameter and length were observed before placing it in the oven. All the harvested fruits were placed in an oven at 105\u0026deg;C for 24 hrs. The stem diameter and root diameter were observed, and the leaves and stem with roots on the oven to 105\u0026deg;C for 24 hrs. The biomass of leaves and stems with roots are observed separately.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e2.8. Calculation procedure\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e1. ANOVA test\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003col\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHypothesis\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ol\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe null and alternative hypotheses are formulated as follows:\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eH\u003csub\u003e0\u003c/sub\u003e\u003csup\u003e\u0026rsquo; \u003c/sup\u003e= the row means are equal\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eH\u003csup\u003e\u0026rsquo;\u003c/sup\u003e\u003csub\u003e1\u003c/sub\u003e = the row means are not all equal\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eH\u003csup\u003e\u0026rdquo;\u003c/sup\u003e\u003csub\u003e0\u003c/sub\u003e = the column means are equal\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eH\u003csup\u003e\u0026rdquo;\u003c/sup\u003e\u003csub\u003e1\u003c/sub\u003e = the column means are not all equal\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003col start=\"2\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLevel of significance\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ol\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026alpha; = 0.05\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003col start=\"3\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eANOVA Table\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ol\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cu\u003eTable 2: Analysis Table for two-way ANOVA\u003c/u\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ctable width=\"545\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"123\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSource of variance\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"123\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDegree of freedom\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"113\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSum of squares\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"104\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMean square\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"82\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eStatistic\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"123\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRow means\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"123\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003er-1\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"113\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSSR\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"104\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eS\u003csub\u003e1\u003c/sub\u003e\u003csup\u003e2 \u003c/sup\u003e= SSR/(r-1)\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"82\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eF\u003csub\u003e1 = \u003c/sub\u003es\u003csub\u003e1\u003c/sub\u003e\u003csup\u003e2\u003c/sup\u003e/s\u003csub\u003e3\u003c/sub\u003e\u003csup\u003e2\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"123\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eColumn means\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"123\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ec-1\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"113\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSSC\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"104\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eS\u003csub\u003e1\u003c/sub\u003e\u003csup\u003e2 \u003c/sup\u003e= SSR/(c-1)\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"82\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"123\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eErrors\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"123\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e(r-1) (c-1)\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"113\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSSE\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"104\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eS\u003csub\u003e1\u003c/sub\u003e\u003csup\u003e2 \u003c/sup\u003e= SSR/(c-1) (r-1)\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"82\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eF\u003csub\u003e2 = \u003c/sub\u003eS\u003csub\u003e2\u003c/sub\u003e\u003csup\u003e2\u003c/sup\u003e/S\u003csub\u003e3\u003c/sub\u003e\u003csup\u003e2\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"123\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTotal\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"123\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003erc-1\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"113\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSST\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"104\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"82\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ewhere,\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003er = rows\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ec = columns\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSSR = Squares for Row\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSSC = Squares for Column\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSSE = Square for Error\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSST = Square for total\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eF\u003csub\u003e1\u003c/sub\u003e = statistics for row effects\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eF\u003csub\u003e2\u003c/sub\u003e = statistics for column effects\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e2.9. Data analysis\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMicro-soft, i.e., excel, was used for data input and simple statistical analysis, and R package was used for statistical analysis. ANOVA test was done at a 0.05% level of significance. Treatment means that were found to be significantly different from each other were separated by Duncan tests.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"3. RESULT AND DISCUSSION","content":"\u003cdiv id=\"Sec19\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\n \u003ch2\u003e3.1. Chemical Characteristics of Soil\u003c/h2\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe chemical characteristics of soil indicate the overall soil health, soil fertility, and plant growth, which may be influenced by different factors. Regular soil testing and monitoring help in soil improvement and management. The chemical characteristics of the soil were determined before transplanting the seedlings and after harvesting. The chemical properties such as pH, Nitrogen, phosphorus, Potassium, carbon, and organic matter of soil were tested. The chemical properties of soil are shown in the table below:\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\n \u003ctable id=\"Tab3\" border=\"1\"\u003e\n \u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 2\u003c/div\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eChemical characteristics of soil\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003c/caption\u003e\n \u003cthead\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003cth align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eSN\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/th\u003e\n \u003cth align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eParameter\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/th\u003e\n \u003cth align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eInitial soil test\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/th\u003e\n \u003cth align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAfter harvest\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/th\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003c/thead\u003e\n \u003ctbody\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003epH\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"char\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e6.7\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"char\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e5.87\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eNitrogen (%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"char\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.11\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"char\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.05\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e3\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003ePotassium (%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"char\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.034\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"char\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.008\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e4\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003ephosphorous (%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"char\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.01\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"char\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.042\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e5\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eSOM%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"char\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e3.64\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"char\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.98\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e6\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eCarbon%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"char\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2.11\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"char\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1.01\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003c/tbody\u003e\n \u003c/table\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe bar chart above shows a comparison of soil properties before and after harvesting. The nitrogen concentration of the soil decreased significantly from 0.1148\u0026ndash;0.05%, while potassium levels decreased dramatically from 0.03375\u0026ndash;0.00872%. Interestingly, the phosphorus content increased from 0.00722\u0026ndash;0.0417%. Soil Organic Matter (SOM) dropped from 3.64\u0026ndash;0.98%, suggesting a loss of organic content in the soil. The carbon content dropped from 2.11\u0026ndash;1.01%.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAccording to [\u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e46\u003c/span\u003e] Nitrogen levels declined from 0.1148\u0026ndash;0.05%, most likely due to plant absorption and microbial activity, whereas phosphorus levels grew from 0.00722\u0026ndash;0.0417%, probably due to organic matter mineralization in the applied treatments. This is consistent with findings from other research in which organic amendments were proven to boost phosphorus availability.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"Sec20\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\n \u003ch2\u003e3.2. Nutrient Analysis of Fecal Sludge and Sewage Sludge\u003c/h2\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eBefore application as a treatment on seedlings, the chemical properties of the sludge were analyzed. Chemical properties like pH, nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, carbon, and organic matter of sludge were measured, as shown in the table below.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\n \u003ctable id=\"Tab4\" border=\"1\"\u003e\n \u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 3\u003c/div\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eNutrient analysis of fecal sludge and sewage sludge\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003c/caption\u003e\n \u003cthead\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003cth align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eSN\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/th\u003e\n \u003cth align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eParameter\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/th\u003e\n \u003cth align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eFecal Sludge\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/th\u003e\n \u003cth align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eSewage Sludge\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/th\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003c/thead\u003e\n \u003ctbody\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003epH\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"char\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e6.1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"char\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e5.8\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eNitrogen (%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"char\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1.25\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"char\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.11\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e3\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003epotassium (%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"char\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.39\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"char\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.19\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e4\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003ephosphorous (%)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"char\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.05\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"char\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.043\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e5\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eSOM%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"char\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e45.56\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"char\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e50.46\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e6\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eCarbon%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"char\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e26.42\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"char\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e29.26\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003c/tbody\u003e\n \u003c/table\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"Sec21\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\n \u003ch2\u003e3.3. Effects of Treatment on various parameters\u003c/h2\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe study conducted in capsicum by application of different treatment options (T1\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;Control, T2\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;Compost Manure, T3\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;Sewage Sludge, and T4\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;Fecal Sludge) is analyzed by the impact on the plant growth, i.e., number of leaves, plant height, fruits, and plant biomass, root diameter, root length, stem height, stem diameter, and soil parameters. Statistical analysis of the physical parameters was done and represented in the table below.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"Sec22\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\n \u003ch2\u003e3.4. ANNOVA Analysis of all parameters:\u003c/h2\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\n \u003ctable id=\"Tab5\" border=\"1\"\u003e\n \u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 4\u003c/div\u003e\n \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eANNOVA Analysis of effect on all the parameters measured\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003c/caption\u003e\n \u003cthead\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003cth align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eParameter\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/th\u003e\n \u003cth align=\"left\" colspan=\"6\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eANNOVA\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/th\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003c/thead\u003e\n \u003ctbody\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eP value\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eF test\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLSD\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCV%\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSEM\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGrand Mean\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eEffect on Number of Leaves\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.49\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eNot significant at P\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.05\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e14.04\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e26.29\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e4.39\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e33.40\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eEffect on Wet Leaves Biomass\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.88\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eNot significant at P\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.05\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e71.91\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e67.51\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e22.20\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e66.59\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eEffect on Dry Leaves Biomass\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.94\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eNot significant at P\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.05\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e18.45\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e97.23\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e5.16\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e11.86\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eEffect on Overall Plant Height after harvest\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.44\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eNot significant at P\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.05\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e61.60\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e12.81\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e19.25\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e300.625\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eEffect on Root Diameter\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.3\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eNot significant at P\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.05\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e179.51\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e46.90\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e56.11\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e239.30\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eEffect on Stem Diameter\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.09\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eNot significant at P\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.05\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1.77\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e9.29\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.55\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e11.95\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eEffect on Stem and Root wet Biomass\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.93\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eNot significant at P\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.05\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e165.56\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e41.05\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e51.75\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e252.11\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eEffect on Stem and Root dry Biomass\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.37\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eNot significant at P\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.05\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e93.96\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e75.77\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e26.26\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e77.52\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eEffect on Plant standing length\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.32\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eNot significant at P\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.05\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e47.64\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e15.38\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e14.89\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e193.63\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eEffect on Fruit wet Biomass\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.84\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eNot significant at P\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.05\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e198.27\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e88.95\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e55.43\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e139.34\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eEffect on Fruit dry Biomass\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.69\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eNot significant at P\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.05\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e36.08\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e96.68\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e10.09\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e23.33\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eEffect on Fruit diameter\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.08\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eNot significant at P\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.05\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e9.36\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e17.56\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2.617\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e33.31\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eEffect on Fruit length\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0.07\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eNot significant at P\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.05\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e9.32\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e16.71\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2.61\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e34.89\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eEffect on Day of first flowering\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eNot significant at P\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.05\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e14.04\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e18.21\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e3.93\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd align=\"left\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e48.22\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003c/tbody\u003e\n \u003c/table\u003e\n \u003c/div\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe application of fecal sludge (FS), sewage sludge (SS), compost, and control treatments had distinct impacts on the growth and yield parameters of the \u003cem\u003eCapsicum annuum\u003c/em\u003e. FS consistently showed superior performance in plant height, root diameter, stem diameter, wet biomass, and standing length due to its high nutrient content, particularly nitrogen and phosphorus, which are essential for vegetative growth and structural robustness. Additionally, the organic matter in FS improved soil water retention and microbial activity, contributing to increased wet and dry biomass. These observations align with similar studies that highlight the benefits of nutrient-rich organic fertilizers [\u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e16\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e48\u003c/span\u003e].\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eControl plots, on the other hand, exhibited the earliest flowering and the largest fruit length and diameter. This is likely a stress-induced response, where nutrient deficiency accelerates flowering and reduces competition, resulting in larger but fewer fruits. Similar findings have been reported, emphasizing the role of nutrient stress in triggering early reproductive stages in plants. Compost and SS treatments showed moderate performance, with SS underperforming in several parameters [\u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e11\u003c/span\u003e]. The reduced growth in SS-treated plants may be due to contaminants such as heavy metals, including cadmium and lead, which interfere with nutrient uptake and physiological processes [\u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e44\u003c/span\u003e]. High salinity in untreated or partially treated SS can also create osmotic stress, further inhibiting plant growth [\u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e53\u003c/span\u003e].\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eIn Nepal, approximately 2925 cubic meters of fecal sludge are generated daily from onsite sanitation systems, yet most of this waste remains untreated, leading to significant environmental and public health issues [\u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e5\u003c/span\u003e]. Bhaktapur, a densely populated heritage city, exemplifies these challenges, with only 8% of the population connected to sanitation systems and the remainder relying on traditional methods [\u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e45\u003c/span\u003e]. However, properly treated FS has immense potential in agriculture, as demonstrated in pilot studies conducted in Kathmandu Valley, where FS improved soil fertility and crop yields, offering a sustainable alternative to chemical fertilizers [\u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e3\u003c/span\u003e].\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eFS provides a cost-effective solution for farmers in Nepal, where agriculture employs over 65% of the population [\u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e9\u003c/span\u003e]. Unlike chemical fertilizers, which are expensive and heavily reliant on imports, FS is locally sourced, reducing costs and dependency. Furthermore, it enhances soil structure, microbial activity, and nutrient availability while supporting a circular economy by turning waste into a valuable resource [\u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e32\u003c/span\u003e]. These advantages make FS a practical and environmentally sustainable alternative to inorganic fertilizers, which are associated with soil degradation and environmental harm [\u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e42\u003c/span\u003e].\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe integration of FS into agricultural practices aligns with successful models in South Asia, particularly in India, where fecal sludge treatment plants are increasingly coupled with nutrient recovery systems [\u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e30\u003c/span\u003e]. These systems not only address waste management challenges but also contribute to resource-efficient farming. Developing countries like Nepal, where fecal sludge management is a major challenge, can adopt similar strategies to maximize the benefits of FS, improve agricultural sustainability, and reduce their reliance on costly chemical fertilizers.\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDespite these promising outcomes, variability in FS-treated plants, as indicated by high coefficients of variation (CV%), highlights the need for further research with larger sample sizes and more controlled conditions. Long-term studies should also explore the environmental and economic implications of scaling up FS use in agriculture to ensure its feasibility and sustainability. This research aligns closely with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), by addressing fecal sludge management as well as SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) by turning waste into a resource, emphasizing the importance of circular economies in reducing environmental footprints and enhancing resource efficiency.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e"},{"header":"4. CONCLUSION","content":"\u003cp\u003eThis study highlights the potential of fecal sludge (FS) and sewage sludge (SS) as sustainable alternatives to conventional fertilizers for \u003cem\u003eCapsicum annuum\u003c/em\u003e cultivation. FS treatment demonstrated improved plant height, biomass, and stem robustness, while control treatments showed advantages in fruit size. Despite no statistically significant differences among treatments, the trends suggest FS's superior ability to enhance soil fertility and plant growth. Properly treated sludge can reduce reliance on chemical fertilizers, contributing to sustainable agriculture by improving waste management and resource efficiency. Future studies should focus on long-term impacts, environmental safety, and economic feasibility to optimize the use of these alternative fertilizers.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"Declarations","content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eACKNOWLEDGEMENT\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI highly acknowledge the Department of Civil Engineering, Kathmandu University, for providing constant support throughout the research. Center of Environmental Safeguards and Occupational Safety for agricultural safety guidance and support.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDATA AVAILABILITY\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe datasets generated during and/or analyzed during the current study are available from the corresponding author on reasonable request.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAUTHORS AND AFFILIATIONS\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDepartment of Civil Engineering, School of Engineering, Kathmandu University, Nepal\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNisha Laghu\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCentre for Environmental Safeguards and Occupational Safety, Kathmandu University, Nepal\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSunil Ranabhat, Ishwar Bhusal\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDepartment of Environmental Science and Engineering, School of Science, Kathmandu University, Nepal\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBikash Adhikari\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCONTRIBUTIONS\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBikash Adhikari contributed to conceptualization, experimentation, writing the draft, and reviewing; Nisha Laghu contributed to experimentation and analysis; Ishwar Bhusal and Sunil Ranabhat contributed to writing the draft, analysis, and visualization.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCORRESPONDING AUTHOR\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCorrespondence to Bikash Adhikari.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFUNDING\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNo funding was received for conducting this study. \u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eETHICAL DECLARATIONS\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eClinical Number\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNot applicable.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eConsent to Participate\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNot applicable.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eConsent to Publish\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNot applicable.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCompeting Interest\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe authors declare that they have no conflict of interest.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"References","content":"\u003col\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eZewde AA, Li Z, Xiaoqin Z. 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J Genet Genomics. 2023;51(1):16\u0026ndash;34. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003ehttps://doi.org/10.1016/j.jgg.2023.08.007\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1016/j.jgg.2023.08.007\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003c/ol\u003e"}],"fulltextSource":"","fullText":"","funders":[],"hasAdminPriorityOnWorkflow":false,"hasManuscriptDocX":true,"hasOptedInToPreprint":true,"hasPassedJournalQc":"","hasAnyPriority":false,"hideJournal":true,"highlight":"","institution":"","isAcceptedByJournal":false,"isAuthorSuppliedPdf":false,"isDeskRejected":"","isHiddenFromSearch":false,"isInQc":false,"isInWorkflow":false,"isPdf":false,"isPdfUpToDate":true,"isWithdrawnOrRetracted":false,"journal":{"display":true,"email":"[email protected]","identity":"researchsquare","isNatureJournal":false,"hasQc":true,"allowDirectSubmit":true,"externalIdentity":"","sideBox":"","snPcode":"","submissionUrl":"/submission","title":"Research Square","twitterHandle":"researchsquare","acdcEnabled":true,"dfaEnabled":false,"editorialSystem":"","reportingPortfolio":"","inReviewEnabled":false,"inReviewRevisionsEnabled":true},"keywords":"Capsicum, Compost, Fecal Sludge, Sewage Sludge and Sustainable Agriculture","lastPublishedDoi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-6783138/v1","lastPublishedDoiUrl":"https://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-6783138/v1","license":{"name":"CC BY 4.0","url":"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/"},"manuscriptAbstract":"\u003cp\u003eThe improper disposal of fecal sludge (FS) and sewage sludge (SS) poses significant environmental and public health challenges in developing countries like Nepal. This study explores the potential of FS and SS as sustainable fertilizers for agricultural applications, addressing the dual challenges of waste management and reducing dependency on chemical fertilizers. Using a randomized complete block design (RCBD), Capsicum annuum was cultivated under four treatments: FS, SS, compost, and control, with growth and yield parameters such as plant height, root and stem diameter, biomass, and fruit characteristics analyzed. FS treatment demonstrated superior performance in plant height (325.8\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;36.52 mm), root diameter (338.35\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;218.54 mm), and fruit wet biomass (182.10\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;155.83 g), though differences among treatments were statistically insignificant (p\u0026thinsp;\u0026gt;\u0026thinsp;0.05). Control plots showed earlier flowering (40.01\u0026thinsp;\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;1.34 days) and larger fruit dimensions, while SS treatments underperformed, likely due to heavy metal contaminants. Compost treatment showed moderate results, enhancing soil structure and microbial activity. This research underscores the viability of FS as an effective alternative to chemical fertilizers, contributing to sustainable agriculture and circular economies.\u003c/p\u003e","manuscriptTitle":"Study on the Effect of Fecal Sludge and Sewage Sludge Application on the Growth and Production of Capsicum","msid":"","msnumber":"","nonDraftVersions":[{"code":1,"date":"2025-07-22 09:56:40","doi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-6783138/v1","editorialEvents":[{"type":"communityComments","content":0}],"status":"published","journal":{"display":true,"email":"[email protected]","identity":"researchsquare","isNatureJournal":false,"hasQc":true,"allowDirectSubmit":true,"externalIdentity":"","sideBox":"","snPcode":"","submissionUrl":"/submission","title":"Research Square","twitterHandle":"researchsquare","acdcEnabled":true,"dfaEnabled":false,"editorialSystem":"","reportingPortfolio":"","inReviewEnabled":false,"inReviewRevisionsEnabled":true}}],"origin":"","ownerIdentity":"b0379145-b952-42d1-a19f-b4fa44633c1a","owner":[],"postedDate":"July 22nd, 2025","published":true,"recentEditorialEvents":[],"rejectedJournal":[],"revision":"","amendment":"","status":"posted","subjectAreas":[],"tags":[],"updatedAt":"2026-01-30T03:54:22+00:00","versionOfRecord":[],"versionCreatedAt":"2025-07-22 09:56:40","video":"","vorDoi":"","vorDoiUrl":"","workflowStages":[]},"version":"v1","identity":"rs-6783138","journalConfig":"researchsquare"},"__N_SSP":true},"page":"/article/[identity]/[[...version]]","query":{"redirect":"/article/rs-6783138","identity":"rs-6783138","version":["v1"]},"buildId":"XKTyCvWXoU3ODBz1xrDgd","isFallback":false,"isExperimentalCompile":false,"dynamicIds":[84888],"gssp":true,"scriptLoader":[]}