Conversion of sawdust, a major waste generated by the timber industry,
to an agricultural supplement was explored. Beds made with a mixture
of Eucalyptus sawdust and soil reduced the chlorophyll content and the
growth rate of wheat seedlings. However, following treatment with Vol
variella volvaceae and urea, the sawdust in growth beds enhanced both
the chlorophyll content and growth of wheat seedlings. Application of
treated sawdust to soil increased the biomass of both bulb and foliage
of onion. This represents a small beginning in the conversion of an i
ndustrial solid waste into a soil conditioner for enhancing agricultur
al productivity.