Worm castings: An Alternative to Sphagnum Peat Moss in Organic Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) Transplant Production

摘要

Utilization of inorganic fertilizers is not allowed under organic production guidelines. Worm castings, which can serve as a peat substitute and as a source of nutrients for plants, possibly could be utilized therefore as an alternative medium in theproduction of tomato transplants. It was determined that worm castings can be incorporated at rates of up to 70% as an alternative to peat moss. The use of worm castings in conventional transplant media during the summer and fall was particularly beneficial since heavy irrigation associated with high temperatures leach essential mineral nutrients from conventional peat/vermiculite mixes. During the summer and fall, worm castings released adequate N for optimal transplant growth, especially at the high amendment rate of 70%. Presently, organic transplant growers are not satisfied with peat/compost/poultry manure mixes. Therefore, worm castings may become a viable alternative organic amendment in this industry.