Effect of cow manure vermicompost on some growth parameters of alfalfa and vinca rosa plants

Abstract

Background: Dairy industry is flourishing in Saudi Arabia to provide milk and milk products to local population. Presently there are about four major dairy industries in different regions of Saudi Arabia. Also, these dairy industries are producing huge quantities of cow manure which seems to have significant impact on the environmental. Besides, the crop germination is considerably affected by the heat produced from fresh cow manure during decomposition process. To avoid this, cow manure vermicompost is being produced with different types of earthworms for using as planting material. Methodology: The present study utilized vermicompost prepared by an earthworm known as Eisenia fetida by a local industry as promising potting material. A greenhouse study was conducted with a total of five treatments of different ratios of vermicomopst and sandy soil. Two test crops namely alfalfa and vinca rosa were studied for treatment evaluation. Mean plant height and fresh biomass increased significantly with increasing proportion of cow manure vermicompost with sandy soil. Results: The results showed that use of cow manure vermicompost has a lot of potential for the development of landscape and house hold plants. Conclusion: In conclusion, cow manure vemicompost showed significant effect on plant growth both for the alfalfa and vinca rose. However, further studies are needed to determine cow manure vermicompost commercial application on cost effective basis.