Utilization of vegetable waste compost to improve nutrient availability and boost Pakcoy (Brassica chinensis L.) growth on nutrient deficient Alfisols

• Vegetable waste compost boosts Alfisol fertility, enhancing Pakcoy growth by 30%. • Plant height rises from 14.2 cm to 15.8 cm with compost application. • Leaf count improves by 10% under high compost treatment. • Root biomass doubles with compost, enhancing nutrient uptake. • Compost enhances Alfisol fertility, promoting sustainable Pakcoy production. Alfisol soils exhibit inherent nutrient deficiencies, posing challenges for sustainable agriculture and climate resilience. This study evaluates the efficacy of vegetable waste compost as a sustainable soil amendment to enhance soil quality and improve the growth of pakcoy ( Brassica chinensis L. ), reducing reliance on synthetic fertilizers. A greenhouse experiment was conducted using four compost dosages (0, 10, 20, 30 t/ha). The highest compost application rate (30 t/ha) significantly increased plant height (from 14.2 cm in control to 15.8 cm) and shoot fresh weight (from 10.7 g in control to 20.5 g), indicating that the 30 t/ha treatment performed substantially better than the untreated control in improving nutrient availability, soil structure, and overall plant productivity. The gradual nutrient release from compost reduced the environmental risks associated with synthetic fertilizer leaching, aligning with circular economy principles. This study highlights the role of organic waste recycling in fostering sustainable soil management and mitigating climate change impacts. Future research should explore large-scale field applications and economic viability to facilitate broader adoption of compost-based soil enrichment strategies.