International Journal of Plant Protection

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Vermicompost - A Boon to Crop Production


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1 Regional Research and Technology Transfer Station (O.U.A.T.), Keonjhar (Odisha), India
     

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Vermicomposting is a process in which earthworms are used to convert organic materials into humus-like material known as vermicompost. A number of researchers throughout the world have found that the nutrient profile in vermicompost is generally higher than traditional compost. In fact, vermicompost can enhance soil fertility physically, chemically and biologically. Physically, vermicompost-treated soil has better aeration, porosity, bulk density and water retention. Chemical properties such as pH, electrical conductivity and organic matter content are also improved for better crop yield. It contains plant nutrient like N, P, K, Ca, Mg, Fe, Mn and Zn which has a positive effect on the plant growth, yield, soil fertility and soil microbes. Environmental as well as health problems have raised the alarm on the effects of usage of chemical fertilizer and consuming of heavily chemically fertilized crops. Vermicomposting has been getting attention due to its environmental friendly approach.. This review paper discusses in detail the effects of vermicompost on soil fertility physically, chemically and biologically.
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  • Vermicompost - A Boon to Crop Production

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Authors

Monika Ray
Regional Research and Technology Transfer Station (O.U.A.T.), Keonjhar (Odisha), India

Abstract


Vermicomposting is a process in which earthworms are used to convert organic materials into humus-like material known as vermicompost. A number of researchers throughout the world have found that the nutrient profile in vermicompost is generally higher than traditional compost. In fact, vermicompost can enhance soil fertility physically, chemically and biologically. Physically, vermicompost-treated soil has better aeration, porosity, bulk density and water retention. Chemical properties such as pH, electrical conductivity and organic matter content are also improved for better crop yield. It contains plant nutrient like N, P, K, Ca, Mg, Fe, Mn and Zn which has a positive effect on the plant growth, yield, soil fertility and soil microbes. Environmental as well as health problems have raised the alarm on the effects of usage of chemical fertilizer and consuming of heavily chemically fertilized crops. Vermicomposting has been getting attention due to its environmental friendly approach.. This review paper discusses in detail the effects of vermicompost on soil fertility physically, chemically and biologically.

References