Vermicompost - A boon to crop production

Abstract

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