Author : P.R. Warman^a and M.J. AngLopez^a.

Address : (^a Nova Scotia Agricultural College, P.O. Box 550, Truro, N.S., Canada B2N 5E3).

Abstract : Vermicompost derived from different feedstocks as a plant growth medium.

Journal : Bioresource Technology,

Volume No. : Volume 101(12)

Publish Year : 2010

Page No. : 4479-4483

Main Data : This study determined feedstock effects on earthworm populations and the quality of resulting vermicomposts produced from different types of feedstocks using different vermicomposting durations. Feedstock combinations (Kitchen Paper Waste (KPW), Kitchen Yard Waste (KYW), Cattle Manure Yard Waste (CMY)), three durations of vermicomposting (45, 68 or 90 days), and two seed germination methods (with two concentrations of vermicompost) for radish, marigold and upland cress, served as the independent variables. The worms (Eisenia fetida) doubled their weight by day 68 in KPW and CMY vermicomposts and day 90 KPW vermicompost produced the greatest weight of worms. The direct seed germination method (seeding into soil or vermicompost–soil mixtures) indicated that KPW and KYW feedstocks decreased germination compared to the control, even in mature vermicompost. Seed germination was greater in the water extract method; however, most of the vermicompost extracts suppressed germination of the three seed species compared to the water controls. Vermicomposts from all three feedstocks increased leaf area and biomass compared to the control, especially in the 10% vermicompost:soil mix. Thus, seed germination and leaf area or plant biomass for these three species are contrasting vermicompost quality indicators. Keywords: Feedstock; Germination; Plant bioassay; Vermicompost maturity