Vermicomposting: Reusing Overripe Vegetables To Create and Utilize A Homemade Fertilizer of A Tomato Plant (Solanum Lycopersicum)
Vermicomposting: Reusing Overripe Vegetables To Create and Utilize A Homemade Fertilizer of A Tomato Plant (Solanum Lycopersicum)
Curly Kate M. Co
Florissa I. Rodriguez
2020-2021
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Acknowledgment………………………………………………………………………………….1
Chapter 1…………………………………………………………………………………………..2
Introduction……………………………………………………………………………..2-3
Theoretical Framework………………………………………………………………….3-4
Statement of the Problem…………………………………………………………….…4-5
Hypothesis…………………………………………………………………………………5
Conceptual Framework……………………………………………………………………6
Significance of the Study………………………………………………………..………6-7
Scope and Delimitation……………………………………………………………………7
Definition of Terms……………………………………………………………………..8-9
Chapter 3: Methodology…………………………………………………………………...…19-29
Method of Research…………………………………………………………………..19-20
Method of Collecting Data…………………………………………………………...20-21
Statistical Treatment……………………………….…………………………………….21
Materials and Procedure………………………………………...……………………22-29
used for the tomato plant. The experiment was conducted with three different setups according to
its treatment with 3 replicas of each setup. There are three different parameters in which three
treatments were done: treatment 1 used vermicast fertilizer, treatment 2 used NPK 14-14-14
(triple 14) chemical fertilizer, and control treatment is done to the third set of tomato plants. This
research aims to determine the best way to improve the plant growth and yield performance of
the tomato plant among the three treatments. Moreover, the study also showed the effects of
vermicast fertilizer and triple 14 chemical fertilizer on the tomato plant in terms of plant height,
duration of plant growth, stem diameter, and root length. In the process of vermicomposting
overripe vegetables are used as a source of nutrients and the excreted waste or vermicast that are
manually separated are used for treatment 1. Two grams of vermicast and triple 14 fertilizer are
applied four (4) times with 10 days interims. Treatment 1, 2, and 3 didn’t show high intervals
between their records, however, treatment 1 that used vermicast treatment showed the highest
average in terms of plant height, stem diameter, and root length among the three setups. The data
collected in the study showed that vermicast is an appropriate source of nutrients for a tomato
plant.
ACKNOWLEDGMENT
The research would not be probable and successfully done without the people who gave
support and assistance to the researchers. Particularly, the researchers would like to extend their
utmost gratitude to the people who have given them support and assistance in accomplishing this
research.
To God Almighty, who has granted countless blessings and knowledge that the
To the researchers’ parents, who provided financial and mental support for the things
To the members, who willingly assisted one another in performing their assignments and
duties in order to make their study successful; without their perseverance and unwavering
encouragement, they would not be able to reach this milestone on completing their study.
To their instructor in Practical Research 2, Mr. Oliver Ramos, for providing them with
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CHAPTER 1
statement of the problem, hypothesis, significance of the study, and scope and delimitation of the
research.
INTRODUCTION
Every year, 1.3 billion tonnes of food is wasted globally, one-third of all food produced
for human consumption, according to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the
United Nations. Food waste has been one of the most common problems in our country. The
country's solid waste typically comprises organic composition. According to the National Solid
Waste Management Commission (NSWMC), Solid waste composition 2015 data, 52 percent of
disposed waste dominated in the Philippines is biodegradable such as food scraps, kitchen waste,
and garden waste. Through the effective use of resources and natural resources, researchers aim
to create a homemade fertilizer that will be done in a zero-waste approach to control and run the
organic wastes. The fertilizer made with the process of vermicomposting can also be the
replacement for other commercial fertilizers concerning that the resources used are affordable
The influential step towards the creation of waste-free homemade fertilizer is doing the
transforming solid organic waste into an environmentally-friendly, useful and valuable means. It
is an accelerated process that involves bio-oxidation and stabilization of the waste as a result of
the interactions between some species of earthworms and microorganisms (Dominguez et al.,
2009). Vermicompost has a higher nutritional value than traditional composts. And that is due to
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the increased rate of mineralization and degree of humification by the action of earthworms
(Albanell et al. 1988). Earthworms provide beneficial nutrients for the soil through their excreted
waste called castings. These castings are rich in phosphorus, calcium, nitrogen, and magnesium
which are essential nutrients that help with plant growth and plant health.
source of nutrients for plants. The experiment requires the formulation of a vermicompost bin.
The bin will contain overripe green vegetables as the food of the earthworms. Instead of getting
rid of overripe vegetables, using it as a valuable source of nutrients in the vermicompost bin is
the best option for this study. The existence of the vermicompost bin will perform an influential
role in the research and intends to be a sustainable and eco-friendly option. The study proposes
to show the effectiveness of the developed homemade fertilizer throughout the process of the
research.
THEORETICAL FRAMEWORK
According to Rakesh Joshi et al., 2014, vermicompost is ideal organic manure for better
growth and yield of many plants. It can increase the production of crops and prevent them from
harmful pests without polluting the environment. Vermicomposting is a significant but not yet
fully understood transformation that takes place, where the developed organic worm manure is
rich in microbial activity and plant growth regulators. In short, earthworms with the process of
vermicomposting, can turn garbage into something 'gold' (Crescent, 2003). Vermicompost
stimulates to influence the microbial activity of the soil, increases the availability of oxygen,
maintains normal soil temperature, improves soil porosity, and infiltration of water, it also
improves nutrient content and increases growth, yield, and quality of the plant (Arora et al.,
2011). Vermicompost (VC), when used as fertilizer, not only bears a positive impact on soil
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quality, plant growth, and yield but also enhances the nutritional value of crops produced. It also
increases soil structural stability and reduces the vulnerability of soil to calamities like erosion
(Lamichhane, 2018). The application of vermicompost at higher doses helped increase leaf yield
but did not help reach near the recommended dose of NPK (Washimkar, 2005).
Finding out and searching for in-depth knowledge about the utilization of
conduct the experiment. The efficacy of implementation, the contribution, classification, and
qualities of a vermicompost fertilizer and analyzing the compound and properties presented, also
includes the proper practices management to support the production of a healthy crop with the
help of vermiculture. Furthermore, also to justify the means of having a balanced and controlled
Globally, the problem that a lot of countries are facing is organic waste. Researchers
made a way of the zero-waste approach to control and run the organic wastes. Food waste has
been one of the most common problems in our country. A lot of those vegetable scraps are
thrown away instead of being recycled. The researchers proposed the use of vermiculture
because earthworms provide beneficial nutrients for the soil through their excreted waste called
castings. These castings are rich in phosphorus, calcium, nitrogen, and magnesium which are
essential nutrients that help with plant growth and plant health. With vermicomposting,
researchers converted the organic wastes into a fertilizer that is capable of having a rich nutrient
plant. It is the key to having a sustainable environment and increase organic farming.
1. What are the factors that affect the growth of the plant?
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2. Which of the three setups are the best way to nourish a plant?
3. What are the effects of worm castings and the chemical fertilizer (NPK 14-14-14) to
a. plant height
c. stem diameter
d. root length
HYPOTHESIS
Growing an environment where it can lead to enhance indoor gardening practically and
naturally without the means of the rhizosphere. The use of organic manure implementation was
incredibly achieved, containing all the importance of macro and micro plant nutrients. The
essentiality and presence of creating the compost bin in terms of vermicomposting are to increase
the relationship of soil nutrients and having a rich fertilizer. Earthworm fragments, the ultimate
role for soil formation, soil volume, microflora, and fauna. Earthworms also produced such
external structures that are a perfect fit within the contact of the soil, this experiment will make
With the proper dosage of fertilizers for each plant, the effects of the fertilizer will be
observed through the growth of the plant: stem diameter, root length, and plant height. The
researchers of this study hypothesized that the worm castings collected will be a good alternative
for commercial fertilizers. There will be minimal food waste as it is beneficial for
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vermicomposting. The fertilizer aims to be a sustainable and eco-friendly waste management
option.
CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK
USING A COMMERCIAL
FERTILIZER
CONTROL TREATMENT
Vermicomposting plays a major role in improving the growth and yield of different field
crops, vegetables, and flower and fruit crops. It applies to people who are living in urban areas
that unlike rural areas, are lacking space for planting. The earthworm manure collected from the
vermicomposting procedure has a great impact in regards to indoor planting. It’s cheaper for the
resources used are affordable, and the materials required for the creation of the fertilizer can be
found at home. Having vermicast as another source of fertilizer helps plenty of individuals to be
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more accessible to planting without releasing much expense, but just by crafting or creativity.
This study will provide knowledge to others about the benefits of vermicast as another source of
fertilizer and how it will affect the components of the living plants. Thus, the beneficiaries of the
Gardeners
Consumers
With the information obtained from this study, it can give awareness to the
consumers, particularly for consumers of tomatoes ensuring consumers with a good tomato
quality.
Environment
as the source of nutrients. Using overripe vegetables for planting activities can reduce food
Future Researchers
Future researchers can use the process and findings of our study as a basis for
their research.
The main focus of the study is the effectiveness of the natural homemade fertilizer in a
tomato plant. The worm castings collected is the result of the vermicomposting process. The
vermicompost bin includes overripe vegetables. The process uses the bed method, in which
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newspaper acts as the bedding and overripe vegetables as the food for the earthworms. The
limitations of the study are the things and events that are not in the scope.
DEFINITION OF TERMS
Castings are then excreted waste of an earthworm which are rich in phosphorus, calcium,
Compost is an organic matter that has been decomposed in a process called composting.
This process recycles various organic materials otherwise regarded as waste products and
Fertilizer is any material of natural substance or synthetic origin and chemical that is
applied to soil or plant tissues to supply more nutrients essential to the growing plants.
Horticulture is the agriculture of plants, mainly for food, materials, comfort, and beauty
for decoration. Horticulturist applies knowledge, skills, and technologies to grow intensively
produced plants for human food, and non-food uses for personal or social needs.
N-P-K is short for Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium this is the “Big 3” primary
nutrients in commercial fertilizers. Each of these fundamental nutrients plays a key role in plant
nutrition.
Nitrogen is considered to be the most important nutrient, and plants absorb more
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Organic matter refers to the large source of carbon-based compounds it can be found
within natural and engineered, terrestrial, and aquatic environments. The matter is composed of
organic compounds that have come from the remains of an organism such as plants and animals
Phosphorus is linked to a plant’s ability to use and store energy, including the process of
photosynthesis. It’s also needed to help plants grow and develop normally. Phosphorus in
Potassium is the third key nutrients of commercial fertilizers. It helps strengthen plants’
abilities to resist disease and plays an important role in increasing crop yields and overall quality.
Potassium also protects the plants when the weather is cold or dry, strengthening its root system
worms most popular is earthworms to create a mixture of decomposing vegetable or food waste,
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CHAPTER 2: Review of Related Literature
This chapter presents the studies that researchers found in exploration regarding
vermicomposting and discovered further knowledge. Several studies have addressed the
relentless increase of organic waste is one of the causes of different environmental problems
around the world. In the matter of effectivity, various researchers conducted experiments for
their studies. The literature review will present reviews from local and international studies
estimated by the number of worms and the additional biomass and the vermicompost delivered.
To accomplish high proficiency, one of the keys is the choice of the legitimate substrate made
out of bedding materials and food source for earthworms. A 3x3 examination with the plant
matter and animal manures as the components were directed to decide the productivity of
treatment was brought to the soil research facility for NPK examination. It is presumed that the
effectiveness of creating vermicompost is influenced by the substrate materials and that it could
The bedding materials should give an amiable climate and the food for the worms. In this
investigation, it was estimated that the various substrates (bedding material+food source) will
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and the food source of earthworm (Factor B). Factor A has rice straw, G. sepium leaves, and
sawdust. Factor B is composed of cattle, chicken, and hog manures. There are nine treatments in
each with three replications that were utilized and disseminated in a randomized plan. Every
Elena (2016) concluded that the substrates with sawdust and rice straw are ideal for
increment in number and all-out weight addition of worms and less positive with G. sepium
leaves. Among the animal and hog manure, it is best for the proliferation and development of
worms. The individual weight is supported by higher nutritive estimation of the substrate and by
The study of Mojares et al. (2020) focused to discuss the development of Malvar to be
the organic capital of Batangas. The researchers of the study interviewed different stakeholders
such as farmers, municipal agriculture officer, municipal environment officer, natural resources
agriculture sustainability metrics, an analysis was provided. The intensified waste management
program shredded the segregated and collected biodegradable wastes. The shredded
biodegradable wastes were used to feed African Night Crawler that will provide vermicast which
producing organic fertilizer subsidy to farmers; biogas technology facility that also produces
The organic fertilizer value chain in Cagayan Valley, Philippines was studied by Padilla
et al. (2017). Corn and banana crop residues were found to be the primary sources of phosphorus
and potassium respectively while nitrogen sources are animal wastes particularly chicken dung
(Padilla et al., 2017). Several cooperatives are engaged in organic production but the operations
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are within the infant stage that needs strong technical and support from the govt and NGOs. The
origin of organic fertilizers is from input suppliers who were swine, cattle, and poultry raisers
and utilize animal waste for the plants. The sources of phosphorus and potassium are crop
residues such as corn, banana, and rice crops were and the nitrogen sources were the chicken
dung. Organic fertilizer produced in Cagayan Valley has low macronutrient content ranging from
1% to 5% only. Hence, organic fertilizer can only serve as a soil conditioner and cannot fully
provide the nutrient requirement of rice and corn which were the major crops in the valley. An
abrupt shift to organic agriculture would threaten food security and self-sufficiency in the
Cagayan valley.
According to the work of Alcantara and Gonzaga (2015), the application of the fertilizer
is also intense in cultivation as the tomato is a heavy feeder crop. Besides the variety,
fertilization is an important element in optimizing the yield of tomatoes. One way to increase
tomato production is with the use of organic fertilizers such as vermicomposting. Vermicast has
been reported to be successful in enhancing root formation, elongation of the stem, and
production of biomass. Vermicast, like any other agricultural fertilizer, can be added to plants by
banding and finishing processes. Tomato growers commonly practiced fertilization, particularly
with organic fertilizers such as chicken dung. In the course of fertilization, the farmers mixed
fertilizer into the water and applied it to plants by drip or sprinkler. In sweet corn, the yield was
improved when applied at 90 kg N / ha using a drip fertilization system over a band fertilization
In the study of Besas et al. (2020), the important changes in the horticultural
characteristics of lettuce have been identified with the application of various vermicomposting
materials. The single application of either vermicompost, vermitea, and vermicompost drips
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yielded taller plants with larger and more formed leaves comparable to those plants with
synthetic fertilizer application. But the growth of lettuce was further increased by the combined
application of vermicompost and vermicompost drips. The discovery has demonstrated the value
of the nutrients present in both inorganic and organic fertilizers have greatly increased
experimental plant growth and yield as a fertilizer application relative to unfertilized care.
A field experiment was conducted to prove the utilization of fertilizer on the dry matter
and nutrient uptake of sweet corn at the research station in Central Mindanao University of the
Philippines on February 2016 to May 2016. The management and data collection started after the
seeding up to the harvesting period. The weed population was heavily observed to prevent
competition for nutrients. The implementation of pesticides prevented the infestation of insect
pests. The nitrogen absorption of sweet corn is heavily influenced by fertilizer materials. The
data confirmed the observation that the nitrogen content of corn plants is expected to be high in
those plots treated with inorganic fertilizers. It is also known that the nutrients present in
inorganic fertilizers are easily available for usage. It was observed that the sweet corn plant
treated with the full recommended value of inorganic fertilizer resulted in the highest phosphorus
content, while the plant with no treatment of fertilizer resulted in the lowest phosphorus content.
The statistical analysis determined the significant influence of the fertilizer. This explains that
native phosphorus is the only source of nutrition for crop development. The final results showed
that the application of inorganic fertilizer and vermicompost would significantly affect the dry
(Guzman et al., 2019) concluded that sludge produced from wastewater treatment
facilities has been applied in farming as soil conditioners. Notwithstanding, the deficient or
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potentially wrong treatment of wastewater may bring about sludge that may in any case contain
heavy metals, helminth ova, and coliforms representing a danger to the two people and the
environment. The examination features the requirement for raising public awareness and
instructing farmers on the potential dangers related to the utilization of raw sludge for
agribusiness. This examination is expected to research the capability of sludge as a safe and
financially alternative soil conditioner. In particular, the examination intended to: (a) decide the
physicochemical qualities and arrangement of the sludge acquired from different sources; and (b)
depict the viability of different sludge treatment measures for heavy metal, helminth ova, and
coliform removal. This investigation shows that the raw sludge tests from either kind of
treatment plant didn't meet the base prerequisites set in PNS/BAFS 183:2016. High
convergences of Cd and Hg in sludge from the sewage treatment plant were found to surpass the
greatest passable level. Additionally, the presence of helminth ova in sludge from the septage
treatment plant demonstrates that raw sludge can't be suggested for land application as a soil
utilization inland application to forestall dangers to both the climate and human wellbeing.
Further and more escalated work is important to explore the valuable impacts of vermicompost
treating the soil of slime with supplement rich natural waste materials is exceptionally
The study of Villaver et al. 2019 was conducted to find out the perceptions of vermi
raisers on different vermicomposting practices adopted in Zamboanga Del Sur, Philippines. The
vermi raisers in Zamboanga Del Sul responded that the vermi population with the inclusion of
5% banana, jackfruit, and banana peelings in the substrate. The vermiculture faced many
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problems and one of the serious problems during vermicast production is the high cost of inputs
and pests' invasion. Based on the results, the vermi raisers must utilize available resources of
feeding materials to avoid pathogens, cover the worm bed with plywood, galvanized iron, and
canvass to enhance the eating ability of worms, and maintain a sufficient amount of moisture to
Various projects to automate agricultural methods are developed. Each of them has its
Vermicomposting System (of Proper Waste Ratio + MCU Vermicomposting Bed) developed by
Embalzado et al. (2019). Vermicomposting will be improved with the use of additional research
as well as the waste ratio determinant prototype’s data as the input. Embalzado and his
colleagues implemented Waste Ratio as an input, Microcontroller for the worm bin environment,
and the Trommel for the automated harvesting. The study proved that vermicomposting at home
can be done automatically without the use of hands. The researchers of the study gamble that in
the future it will improve the fertilizers and the fertilizers will be marketed at a lower cost.
According to Sharma and Garg (2019), the constant expansion of organic waste is one of
the causes of different environmental problems around the world. Different greenhouse gasses
emitted from solid waste dumps takes a place in global warming. Biodegradable wastes produced
from different sectors such as animal waste, agricultural waste, industrial, waste, and municipal
waste can be utilized as raw materials for vermicomposting (Soobhany et al., 2017). The
production of vermicomposting is a part of solving the problem with organic waste (Kostecka et
al., 2018). Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of United Nations stated that one-third of
food produced around the world is wasted. Kostecka et al. (2018) concluded that with the
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process of vermicomposting, kitchen organic waste can be transformed into organic fertilizer that
contains nutrients.
employing earthworms and microorganisms (Bhat et al., 2018). The most effective epigeic
earthworms for vermicomposting are Eisenia fetida, Eisenia andrei, Eudrilus eugeniae, and
Perionyx excavates, notwithstanding that they can consume a wide variety of organic wastes
In the work of Ramnarain et al. (2017), Eisenia Foetida has a successful income in
vermicomposting rice straw, dry grass clippings, and cow manure. The vermicompost product
had a dark color, a mull-like soil odor and it was homogeneous. Micro- and macro-plant
nutrients are all present and it was the indication of the achievement of getting an environment-
friendly nutrientrich fertilizer for the agriculture sector. Possibilities of the production of
vermicompost using other types of waste material and manure should also be explored in future
studies. The study conducted an experiment where vermicomposting was done in three
treatments [T1 (Rice straw), T2 (Rice straw+grass), and T3 (Grass)] using the Eisenia Foetida.
During the process, temperature, humidity, and pH were measured. The vermicompost
accumulated had an excellent nutrient status, confirmed by the chemical analyses, and contained
all the essential macro- and micronutrients. The effect of vermicompost on growth parameters of
the selected vegetable plant, namely okra (A. esculentus L.), was studied by Yuvaraj et al.
(2016). The growth attributes like plant height, leaf area, number of leaves, root length, shoot
length, wet weight, and dry weight have increased altogether the vermicompost treatments
except for 100% vermicompost and garden soil treatment. In the study, earthworms used for PL
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Kathireswari et al. (2005). The main purpose of the study of Yuvaraj et al. (2016) was to
were used, to find out which decomposes faster and releases nutrients in plant-available forms. It
has been reported that amendment materials can stimulate microbial activity resulting in the
antiinflammatory effects and plays a critical role in the defense against oxidative stress and other
chronic diseases (Arjune et al., 2019). It’s rich in nutrients and it’s widely used for human
Demirsoy and Aydin (2020) aimed at the quantitative study of seedling quality and
seedling growth processes to a level that can combat rivals in organic seedling growing. Using
higher quality, healthier, and early seeding production is targeted. In this research seaweed
extract and liquid vermicompost, fertilizer applications were made. Besides, these applications
have seen used in trials in different doses mixtures. The study investigated the effects of different
Instead of synthetic chemicals used for health and fast growth of tomato, most businesses
utilize seaweed solutions to provide more natural, healthier, faster, and more efficient plant
growth than the chemicals. Seaweed has an increasing impact on both fertility and quality by
enabling the crops to get the macro and micro nutritional elements from the soil moderately and
steadily. A three-year field experiment was carried out on an individual farm in Łańcut, located
in the Rzeszów Foothills, from May to October, in 2016–2018 years. The researchers used soil
with the granulometric composition of loamy silt and the second valuation class of arable land; a
type of brown soil developed from loess (Systematics of Polish Soils 6, 2019). Two cultivation
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technologies were used: no fertilization was applied; the second technology, fertilization with the
vermicompost made of the sheep manure was used. The experimental plots were protected
against excessive weed infestation by shielding it with a dark polyethylene film from the start of
the growing season, while the other used solar energy better. The yield of sweet potato also
depends on the type of soil and its abundance of nutrients. The vermicompost used in the
experiment slowly releases nutrients (Ali et al. 2015; Mahmud et al. 2018) and therefore, after its
application to the soil, it secured the supply for nutrients throughout the growing season
(Granberry et al. 2007). On the contrary, an experiment conducted by Mahmud et al. (2020),
wherein the harvested ex Vitro MD2 pineapple fruits are have treated with different types of
fertilizer. The data analysis showed that with regards to plant height, the number of leaves,
length, and width of D-leaves, stomatal density, and stomatal size, between the plants treated
al., 2015). The study of Korkmaz et al. (2015) concluded that phytoremediation is turning into a
less expensive procedure and a process that consolidates a few strategies to remediate soil defiled
with hefty metals and other poisonous toxins. Phytoremediation incorporates plants chose for
their capacity to metals (for example phytochelatin plants that can remobilize metals with its aim
of plant take-up), soil changes, and agronomic practices that help the development of plants. The
effectiveness of the joining forces of vermicompost and phytoremediation leads to help in the
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CHAPTER 3: Methodology
This chapter presents the procedure and materials used in the study. This discusses the
method of research, method of collecting data, and materials and procedure of the research.
METHOD OF RESEARCH
Experimental Site
Overripe Vegetables to Create and Utilize a Homemade Fertilizer of a Tomato Plant (Solanum
Lycopersicum)”This study was conducted from November 13, 2020, until January 11, 2021 in
Bignay Valenzuela (14° 42' 45.53" N; 120° 56' 22.45" E), Metro Manila, Philippines. The
vermicompost bin was maintained under natural light conditions at an approximate temperature
The tomato plants are treated using a randomized complete block design, in which the
researchers provided three different setups with 3 replicas of each setup. The treatments
consisted of the tomato plants treated with the vermicast or worm manure (Pot A, D, and G), the
second tomato plant treated with a commercial fertilizer (Pot B, E and H), and the control plant
The seeds are first implanted in pots with a height of 9 cm, opening diameter of 7 cm, and
an external diameter of 5 cm in the first thirty days of the experiment. When the plants started
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growing up to 10 cm, researchers transferred the plants into a different pots with a height of 7
cm, opening diameter of 9 cm and external diameter of 6 cm with the same label of pots
according to their treatment. Ten days after planting, two grams of fertilizers are applied to pots
A,D, G, B, E, and H. Worm casting was applied to pot A, D, and G while triple 14 fertilizer
three corresponding setups, which means three setups were observed based on their categories:
pots A, D, and G, with worm castings; pots B, E, and H with triple 14 fertilizer; pots C, F, and I
for the controlled treatment. The pots are placed on the benches inside the garage of the
experimental site where there is a sufficient amount of sunlight in the day time.
The application of chemical fertilizer and worm castings is specified and being relied on
each harvest. The first harvest of worm casting is applied 10 days after the creation of the
vermicompost bin. Triple 14 fertilizer and worm castings are applied on the same day and time.
The second application of each fertilizer are applied after ten days of the recent application.
Chemical fertilizer, worm castings, and the soil were studied to provide information on
Vermicast Samples
The first collection of vermicast (worm castings) is performed 10 days after the
creation of the vermicompost bin. Every 10 days collection of worm castings are done and with
the use of gloves, the vermicast is manually separated from the earthworm.
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The chemical fertilizer used is a complete fertilizer from the brand Fertilaid. It is
triple 14 (14-14-14) complete fertilizer wherein the Nitrogen (N) Phosphorus (P) and Potassium
(K) is determined.
Growth Parameters
Plant Height: The height of the plant is measured in centimeters (cm). With the
use of tape measure, the height of each plant is measured 15 days after planting and every 5 days
after putting the worm castings and chemical fertilizer, the height improvement is measured.
Duration of the Growth of the Plant: Data are recorded in each plant.
Stem Diameter: Data are measured after the 5th application of fertilizer (50 days
after planting).
Root Length: After removing the plant from the soil, data are collected with the
STATISTICAL TREATMENT
1. Temperature (Mean)
∑ of recorded temperature
Number of days
4. Root Length
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∑ of recorded root length∈each parameter
Number of plants
Materials
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Figure 3. Photo of Tomato Seeds
used.
Non-glossy paper acted as the bedding. 1/8 cup of coffee grounds and crushed eggshells are also
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Figure 5. Photo of the Container Used as a Bin
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Figure 8: Photo of Crushed eggshells
Procedures
Vermicomposting
In the preparation of the vermicompost bin, the bin is drilled with holes for airflow.
Manila paper acted as the bedding and are soaked in water before it was placed in the bin for
about 1 inch high because earthworms need to live with moisture. Earthworms must live in a
moist environment to live and to breathe through their skin for they do not have lungs
(Benningfield, 2020). The soil is placed on top of the bedding. On top of the soil, overripe
vegetables are layered with 2 tablespoons of coffee grounds and 1 cup of crushed eggshells.
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Figure 10. Photo of the drilled container
Figure 11. Photo of the soaked Manila paper placed on top of the drilled container
On November 13, 2020, the planting started with the approximate average day
temperature at 32°C.
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Transferring the soil. Using the disposable spoon, the soil is transferred into a container with a
Planting. With the use of a disposable spoon, put the seeds on each container, and cover the
seeds with layered soil. Water it with 10 ml of water two to three times a day.
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Figure 15. Photo of covering the seeds with soil and spray 30 ml water on it.
The collection of worms casting is done manually by moving out and spreading the
contents of the vermicompost bin at the bottom. On the other side, bury the food on the soil to
feed the worms exclusively and harvest the worm castings from the opposite side.
Figure 16 and Figure 17. Photos of vermicast collected a day after the vermicast harvesting.
Fertilizer Application
Using the side dressing application of fertilizer, chemical fertilizer, and worm castings are
applied circles around the plants. 10 grams of fertilizers are applied every ten days.
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Figure 18 and Figure 19. Photo of side dressing application of vermicast and chemical fertilizer
Statistical Analysis
The execution of the study used a randomized complete block design with three setups
and three replicates per set up. With the use of Microsoft Excel (2010), the analysis of statistics
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CHAPTER 4: Results and Discussion
This chapter presents the results and discussion of the findings. The data presented are
analyzed to determine the factors affecting the development of the tomato plant. The chemical
properties of worm castings, chemical fertilizer, and soil are presented. Also, researchers
expressed the analysis for the data showed. This chapter also includes the arguments to explain
each outcome.
The area of the experiment recorded an approximate average day and night temperature
Humidity controls the rate of growth, the composition, and the form that a plant attains
(Tibbitts, TW., 1979) while the temperature either hot or cold weather, affects the growth and
productivity of the plant (Zandalinas, S. I., Mittler, R., Balfagón, D., Arbona, V., & Gómez-
Parameters Value
Assessed Unit
Ph Slightly under 7
Total N % 12
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Available P mg/kg 77.78
Exchangeable K .53
Soil Ph and NPK are key soil parameters. Soil Ph is a measure of the soil solution’s
acidity and alkalinity. On a scale from 0 to 14, acidic solutions have a Ph less than 7, while basic
or alkaline solutions have a Ph greater than 7 (McCauley A., Jones C., and Olson-Rutz K., 2017).
Thus, most home garden soils have a Ph that ranges from 5.71-6.5, and applying organic
fertilizer alone will result in an average Ph of 6.5 higher than the control average of 5.71 (Wang,
H., Xu, J., Liu, X., Zhang, D., Li, L., Li, W., & Sheng, L. (2019). Total N on garden soils is 12%,
available P is 77.78 mg/kg, and .53 exchangeable K (Khalid A.A. et. Al., 2014).
Assessed
Total N % 23
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Available P % Slightly under 2.25
promoter and also plant protector from pests and diseases for it is rich in NPK with a nitrogen
Assessed
Total N % 14
Available P % 14
Exchangeable K % 14
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The chemical fertilizer applied in pots B, E, and H has an N:P:K ratio of 14-14-14.
According to the Food and Agricultural Organization of the United Nations, complete fertilizer
(14-14-14) produces the best results when applied at planting time. However, in this study,
Plant Height
nt n on n
(Pots A, D,
G)
(Pots B, E,
H)
(Pots C, F, I)
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Table 4. This table presents the average plant height of the tomato plant from 3 parameters
Each pots are watered two times a day with 30 ml of water. Ten days after planting,
without any treatments, the height of the three parameters is measured. 15 days after planting (5
days after the first application of fertilizers to pots A, D, G treated with vermicast and triple 14
Table
Source of SS df MS F P-value F crit
6. This
Variation
table
3 7 1 4
825.629 14 Page | 34
Total
3
presents the result of the Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) on the average plant height of three
25
20
15
10
0
No Treatment First Second Third Fourth Fifth
Application Application Application Application Application
Figure 1. Average plant height of the three parameters (Treatment 1: Vermicast, Treatment 2:
The results of the average plant height showed that treatment 1 has the highest average of
2.9 cm while treatment 2 and control treatment has the same height of 2.3 cm. 15 days after
planting (5 days after the first application of vermicast to pots A, D, and G, and chemical
fertilizer to pots B, E, and H), treatment 1 showed the highest average of 3.3 cm among the three
parameters, followed by the control treatment with 2.6 cm and treatment 2 with 2.5 cm.
Treatment 1 has the highest average until the second application (25 days after planting) while
control treatment comes third among the three parameters. On the third application, control
treatment has the highest average of 4.4 cm followed by treatment 1 with 4.3 cm and treatment 2
with 3.8 cm. On the fourth application, treatment 1 recorded the highest average of 16.4 cm
following is the 16.0 cm average of treatment 2 and 8.9 to control treatment. On the last
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measurement (50 days after planting), treatment 1 has its last record of 25.5 cm as the highest
average among the three parameters, followed by treatment 2 with 20.9 cm, and a control
The average plant height of each parameter showed that overall, treatment 1 has the
highest record of average plant height until the second application (30 days after planting).
However, at the third application control treatment excelled with a 4.4 cm record compared to
4.3 cm of treatment 1 and 3.8 cm of the treatment 2. Compared to the average of the three
parameters from the second application, the third application showed a drastic improvement with
regards to its height until the last application of fertilizers. In the fourth and fifth application,
treatment 1 has the highest average stem diameter among the three parameters, followed by
Stem Diameter
The average stem diameter of the tomato plants per pot is measured after removing the
2.5
1.5
0.5
0
Treatment 1 (A, D, G) Treatment 2 (B, E, H) Control (C, F, I)
Figure 2. Average stem diameter from the three parameters (Treatment 1: Vermicast,
Among the three parameters, treatment 1 has the highest average stem diameter of 2.6
cm, followed by treatment 2 with an average stem diameter of 2.5 cm, and 2.1 cm as the average
Root Length
Average
Treatment 1 9.3 cm
(Pots A, D, G)
Treatment 2 7.5 cm
(Pots B, E, H)
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Treatment 3 5.9 cm
(Pots C, F, I)
Table 10. This table presents the average root length of the tomato plant from 3 treatments
application of fertilizer).
Variation SS df MS F
Groups 3
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Groups
Total 54.2683 5
Table 12. This table presents the result of ANOVA on the average root length of the tomato
plant from 3 treatments (Treatment 1: vermicast fertilizer, Treatment 2: chemical fertilizer, and
Figure 3. Average root length of a tomato plant from 3 treatments (Treatment 1: vermicast
This table shows that treatment 1 has the longest root length of 9.3 cm, followed by
treatment 2 with root length of 7.5 cm, then control comes last with root length of 5.9. Treatment
1 has the longest root among the three treatments as it shows drastic growth than treatment 2 and
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control. Meanwhile, treatment 2 does not show drastic change from the control as treatment 2 is
SUMMARY
A field experiment was conducted at the Grande Vita Bignay, Valenzuela City, Metro
Manila, Philippines from the date of November 13, 2020, until January 11, 202I. The purpose of
the experiment was to study the effects of castings (earthworm manure) on a tomato plant. With
the use of vermicomposting procedure out of overripe vegetables as the source of nutrients taken
by the earthworms, castings are collected. The experiment was laid out in a randomized complete
block design concept with three parameters. There were three replications per parameter, with a
total of nine tomato plants. The field experiment consists of control treatment with no fertilizer,
vermicast fertilizer for treatment 1, and triple 14 chemical fertilizers for treatment 2. The two
different fertilizers were applied to the experimental crop, Solanum Lycopersicum (Tomato
plant), 15 days after planting. Treatment 1 has the highest plant height and has the longest root
length compared to treatment 2 and control treatment which indicates positive effects of
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Vermicast fertilizer on tomato plants during the experimental days of 60 days. There are no
significant differences between the three parameters on the stem diameter of the plants.
CONCLUSION
From the result of this experimental study, the vermicast, also known as worm castings,
is an excellent source of essential nutrients such as Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P), Potassium (K),
and other micronutrients to support plant growth. The vermicast fertilizer reduces the amount of
chemical fertilizer in the cultivation of a tomato plant, thus minimizing organic food waste and
of a tomato plant with regards to its plant height, duration of plant growth, stem diameter, and
root length. However, on the third application of the vermicast fertilizer, the results then showed
no major change in plant height as the Control (Pots C, F, and I) is only 0.2 cm taller than the
Treatment 1 (Pots A, D, and G). Nonetheless, on the last and fifth application, the results showed
that Treatment 1 has a record of 25.5 cm as the highest average among the three parameters.
Over the past few months, there has been the main highlight within the application of
vermicast fertilizer. Among the three treatments, vermicast fertilizer reveals the importance and
the stand increase of its own nutrition. It is noticed and broke down alongside different variables
that influence the development and advancement of the plant which incorporates soil and
manures NPK content, pH level of the soil, and temperature and humidity.
RECOMMENDATIONS
These days a lot of people have been interested in planting. Fertilizers will help the plants
receive the extra nutrients that they need to grow healthily and for the fruit-bearing plants to
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yield nutritious fruits. Using vermicast as a fertilizer is recommended for it improves the plant
height, root length as well as contributed nutrients to help it bear fruits. Based on the indicated
1. Gardeners should first research on how to properly grow tomato plant and what are the
factors that the gardener need to consider in planting and growing the plant.
2. Research about what the experts say to provide appropriate knowledge and materials.
4. Before the creation of vermicast research about the factors that are needed to consider in
taking care of the vermicompost bin to do the rightful procedures for vermicast excretion.
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BIBLIOGRAPHY
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term application of organic fertilizer on improving organic matter content and retarding acidity
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through vermicomposting using earthworm Drawida sulcata and its effect on plant
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10 Days After Planting 2.4 cm 2.2 cm 2.2 cm 2.3 cm
(No Treatment)
15 Days After Planting 2.5 cm 2.5 cm 2.5 cm 2.5 cm
(First Application)
25 Days After Planting 3.1 cm 3.0 cm 3.0 cm 3.0 cm
(Second Application)
35 Days After Planting 3.5 cm 3.5 cm 4.3 cm 3.8 cm
(Third Application)
45 Days After Planting 17.3 cm 11.7 cm 19.1 cm 16.0 cm
(Fourth Application)
50 Days After Planting 20.3 cm 17.8 cm 24.6 cm 20.9 cm
(Fifth Application)
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POT B POT E POT H AVERAGE
60 Days After Planting 2.6 cm 2.5 cm 2.3 cm 2.5 cm
Measured after the plant is removed from the soil.
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APPEDICES B: PHOTOGRAPHS
The figure provided are photos of the Solanum Lycopersicum (Tomato plant), 60 days
after planting.
Page | 51
Pot D: Treated with Vermicast
Page | 52
Pot B: Treated with NPK 14-14-14 Chemical Fertilizer
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Pot H: Treated with NPK 14-14-14 Chemical Fertilizer
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Pot F: Control Treatment
Page | 55
Appendices C: Curriculum Vitae
RESEARCH INTERESTS
EDUCATION
LANGUAGES
Filipino (native)
English (bilingual oral and written)
Page | 56
BUENAVENTE GLENN ALDRICH L.
Deparo Subdivision Caloocan city
Metro Manila, Philippines 1420
glenn.aldrich.buenavente@lccn.edu.ph
0945-770-0639
RESEARCH INTERESTS
Gaming Esports, Programming
EDUCATION
Kinder to Junior High School, Guardian Angel School Inc.
Senior High School, La Consolacion College of Deparo.
LANGUAGES
Filipino (Oral and Written)
English (Oral and Written)
Page | 57
Sally May Hernandez Cain
Blk. 28 L 8 Yakal St. Alecon Homes
Brgy. 167, Deparo,Caloocan City North
Kalakhang Manila
smc221519@gmail.com
255-1340 (Tel.)
RESEARCH INTERESTS
Nutrition
EDUCATION
Kinder, 2009 San Bartolome Elementary School
Grade School, Sto. Nino School of Palmera Homes Inc., Plácido Del Mundo Elementary
School, Deparo Elementary School
Junior High School, Deparo High School
Senior High School, La Consolacion College – Novaliches
LANGUAGES
Filipino (Oral and Written)
English (Oral and Written)
Page | 58
Co, Curly Kate M.
Blk 10 Lt. 5 St. Dominic Subdivision, Kamagong Street
Caloocan City, Baranggay 168
curlykateco@gmail.com
09153580198 (Cellphone number)
RESEARCH INTERESTS
Filipino Literature, Science and Experiment, Syntethic Chemistry and Natural Experiment
EDUCATION
Page | 59
Jhon Michael De Leon Remitar
228C Kabatuhan Rd. Deparo
Metro Manila, Philippines 1420
jhon.michael.remitar@lccn.edu.ph
0915-510-2407 (Cell)
RESEARCH INTERESTS
EDUCATION
LANGUAGES
Filipino (native)
English (bilingual oral and written fluency)
Page | 60
Florissa Rodriguez
B19 L17 Tierra Nova Main
Metro Manila, Philippines 1421
florissa.rodriguez@lccn.edu.ph
0945-079-7553 (Cell)
RESEARCH INTERESTS
EDUCATION
Junior High School, April 2019 – Caloocan City Business High School
LANGUAGES
Filipino (native)
English (bilingual oral and written fluency)
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