Abstract
The negative effects of synthetic agrochemicals have created strong incentives for the search of organic-based substitutes. One current alternative to the use of synthetic fertilizers is the use of vermicompost tea. In this study we investigate how vermicompost tea enhances pest resistance in crop plants. Four-hundred and thirty tomato plants were treated weekly with vermicompost tea mixtures ranging from 1:20 (5%), 1:10 (10%) and 1:5 (20%) of vermicompost and water (v/v). Physical data such as height, biomass, and yield were recorded. Additionally, leaf tissue samples were collected and analyzed via GC/MS analysis to monitor secondary metabolite production changes across treatment groups. Results indicated that the addition of vermicompost tea improved growth parameters evaluated. Vermicompost tea also influenced secondary metabolite production. High concentration vermicompost tea altered the production and accumulation of terpenoids, phenolic compounds, fatty acids, and alkanes. Improved physical structures and increased concentrations of monoterpenes, diterpenes and hydrocarbons from epicuticular waxes could explain enhanced pest resistance previously observed.
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