The effect of earthworm (Eisenia foetida) on the growth of Medicago sativa

Abstract

In order to study the effects of earthworms on the physiology of Medicago sativa, the effects of different numbers of earthworms (0, 2, 4, 6) on the soil organic matter, plant height, root length, biomass and soluble protein content of Medicago sativa were studied. The results showed that: compared with the control group, (1) The content of soil organic matter increased significantly with the increase of earthworm inoculation; (2)Earthworm treatment had no significant effect on the plant height and biomass of Medicago sativa; (3) Two earthworms’ inoculation significantly increased soluble protein content of Medicago sativa and promoted the growth of Medicago sativa roots; (4) The correlation analysis showed that the content of soil organic matter had a significant positive correlation with Medicago sativa plant height, and a significant negative correlation with underground dry weight. The results showed that earthworm inoculation had a positive effect on improving the yield and quality of Medicago sativa, but the specific amount of earthworm inoculation should be determined by the soil conditions, planting environment and other factors.