Vermicompost effect on soil and field crops: A review

Abstract

Vermicompost is a secondary product resulting from the degradation of agricultural wastes by earthworms. Under favourable conditions, earthworms ingested agricultural wastes and decrease the volume by 40-60%. Vermicompost is rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, micronutrients, vitamins, growth hormones and enzymes such as protease, amylase, lipase, cellulase, chitinase, etc. Vermicomposting is a process, in which, earthworms are used to convert organic materials (usually organic wastes) into humus like material, which after incorporation improves physical, chemical and biological properties of the soil, carbon to nitrogen ration and also acts as a soil conditioner. Since vermicompost is rich in macro- and micro-nutrients as well as in hormones, it increases the rate of seed germination and growth and development of seedlings.