VERMICOMPOSTING

Abstract

Vermicomposting is a method of composting by using earthworms, in this process earthworms eat biodegradable wastes (Such as vegetables and fruits peels), and they break down these natural materials into organic fertilizer. Vermicompost is generally used for organic farming and also maintains the health of the soil. The amount of Nitrogen is more as compared to Phosphorus and Potash in vermicompost. Vermicompost doesn’t harmful to the soil and also helps in increasing the nutrient content of the soil. The life of earthworms is 4 - 8 years depending upon the species. The nutrients contents like Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Potash, Calcium, Magnesium, Iron, Manganese, and Zinc are found in vermicompost. Endozoic earthworms are found in a deep layer of soil and they eat 90 % soil and 10 % organic matter. Epizoic earthworms are found on the surface ofthe soil and they eat 10 % soil and 90 % organic matter. Epizoic earthworms are famous for vermicomposting because they produce more vermicompost as compared to Endozoic earthworms. The weight of earthworms is between 0.5 to 0.6 g. one kg earthworm produces 0.8-7 kg vermicompost per day.