A Comprehensive Review On Earthworms’ Vermicompost: A Strategy For Sustainable Waste Management

Abstract

‘Vermicompost’, an organic fertilizer rich in NPK, micronutrients, and beneficial soil microbes (nitrogen fixing and phosphate solubilizing bacteria and actinomycetes), is a sustainable alternative to chemical fertilizers, which is an excellent growth promoter and protector for crop plants. Today ‘vermicompost’ is an important component of organic farming systems, because it is easy to prepare, has excellent properties, and is harmless to plants. Researches show that vermicompost further stimulates plant growth even when plants are already receiving ‘optimal nutrition.’ Vermicompost is rich in NKP (nitrogen 2-3%, potassium 1.85-2.25%, and phosphorus 1.55-2.25%), micronutrients, and beneficial soil microbes and also composed of ‘plant growth hormones & enzymes.’ It is scientifically proving as ‘miracle growth promoter and also plant protector’ from pests and diseases. Vermicompost retains nutrients for a long time, while the conventional compost fails to deliver the required amount of macro and micronutrients, including the vital NKP to plants in shorter time. In this comprehensive review, we summarize the current status of Vermicomposting as a pathway of sustainable waste management in India as well as worldwide.