Vermicomposting of coirpith with cowdung by Eudrilus eugeniae Kinberg and its efficacy on the growth of Cyamopsis tetragonaloba (L) Taub

Abstract

In view of the growing awareness about ecofriendly organic farming and biotechnology, coirpith and cowdung natural sources were used to produce vermicompost which showed enhanced growth promoting effect in the crop Cyamopsis tetragonaloba. Initially, neutral detergent fibre, acid detergent fibre, lignin, cellulose and hemicellulose contents were determined in three different grades of coirpith and in cowdung. Vermicompost was prepared using the earthworm Eudrilus eugeniae with 60 days maintenance. During composting N, P, K and C contents were estimated in vermicompost as well as in control compost. N, P and K values were highly increased in vermicompost. C:N was dramatically decreased in vermicomposting during the experimental period. Vermicompost enhanced the growth of tested C. tetragonaloba crop. Vermicompost treated plants were taller by 9 cm when compared with the control plant. The use of Vermicompost also led to a marked increase in plant biomass.