Dynamics of nutrient profile during vermicomposting

摘要

Scientific literature having gist of study conducted by authors addressing the influence of vermicomposting on the mineral content of organic waste using earthworm has been reviewed. Earthworm has caught attention of philosophers like Darwin, Pascal and Thoreau. Earthworms are the wonder annelids that have the capacity to perform the process of vermicomposting. Vermicomposting is a self-promoted, self-regulated, self-improved and self-enhanced with low or no-energy requirement. It is a zero-waste technology, easy to construct, operate and maintain. The nutrient profile shows decline in C: N ratio, increase in total nitrogen, potassium, phosphorus, calcium and humus. Vermicompost proves to be quality enhancer of nutrients when mixed with soil. One ofthe major constraints in boosting up agricultural production in India is the low levels of soil fertility. This property of nutrient value addition can be used to mitigate the soil needs. It will prove beneficial both for waste management and low nutrient profiles of soil. This process ensures the availability of essential plant nutrients in soluble forms. Hence, vermicomposting is gaining attention because soil fertility and waste management is the concern of era.