1.

ABBREVIATION

pH - Potential of Hydrogen or power of hydrogen

EC - Electrical conductivity

N - Nitrogen

P - Phosphorus

K - Potassium

Zn - Zinc

Cu - Copper

Fe - Iron

Mn - Manganese

B - Boron

Mo - Molybdenum

Ca - Calcium

Mg - Magnesium

As - Arsenic

Hg - Mercury

Pb - Lead

Cd - Cadmium

Ppm - Parts per million

Kg ha-1 - Kilogram per hectare

dS m-1 - Decisimens per metre

mg/kg - Milligram

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 2. INTRODUCTION

India produces around of 250 million tons of grain a year, but it also leaves 11–15% of
its total output, or about 27.5–37.5 million tons over a year, due to pests and other causes. To
come out of these loss, pesticides are commonly used to reduce agricultural and household
pests. The wastage of food has been reduced a lot after the use of pesticides, but these pesticides
are widely trouble in the soil, water, air, and agricultural products. So, the common use of
pesticides causes a great potential threat to the environment.

From the end of the 20th century to the present time, the total global grain end product
has become higher from 500 million tons to 700 million tons at present. Among them, cereals
quantity for 80% of human consumption of food. Food is expand by pests during its natural
growth or storage. For example, China may be a largely agricultural country, but 40 million
tons which is about 8.8% of the country’s total grain output are lost vainly due to because of a
variety of insect pests every year.

They not only pollute and damage the soil and crops, but also further pollute the ground
water as well as the marine environment, which directly threatens and affects human’s health
and environment.

2.1 ORGANIC COMPOST

Adding of organic manures like farm yard manure, vermicompost, neem cake, poultry
manure, etc., not only gives most of the needed plant nutrients, but even though develops the
soil structure by giving binding substance to soil aggregates leading to develope in cation
exchange capacity and water holding capacity of the soil. (Mahapatra et al., 2009).

Organic manures builts food of high quality, encourage and enhance biological cycles
within the farming system involving micro-organisms, soil flora and fauna, plants and animals
secures, maintains and developed the long term fertility of soils.

For realizing the inherited yield potentials of high yielding varieties, recourse must be
taken through the application of manures and fertilizers. In recent years, there has been
developing recognition of the importance of organics as the global consumers are showing
inclination towards health cautiousness with their everyday diet. Crops grown using organic
inputs having low or no chemicals are being preferred over conventionally produced food by
the end users, mostly medicinally useful crops. Now a days, there has been increasing
importance of organic sources of plant nutrients due to growing ecological concern and

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depleting inherent soil fertility leading to multiple deficiencies of essential and important plant
nutrients.

Composting has been known scientifically as “the process of natural degradation of

botanical and putrescible squander by the action of bacteria, fungi and other organisms in the
attendances of an adequate and continuous air supply” (Hester and Harrison, 2002) and the
product gained is the bio-compost. Bio-compost is one of the most natural mulches and soil
amendments that can be used as an alternative to common commercial chemical fertilizers.

It improves soil structure, soil fertility, texture, aeration, water holding capacity and
stimulates healthy root development in plants. For climate changes composting are the best and
supporting element. The chemical fertilizers produces out harmful nitrous oxide hence utilize
of compost prohibit addition of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. Similarly when the bio-
degradable useless gets composted, it diminishes the emission of hazardous methane comes
out by huge piles of useless dumped on the ground. As decomposition is the crux of the
composting method, various organisms play vital role in the preparing and working of compost
heap.

Most of them are microscopic, some are large enough to be observed with the eye, but
all are beneficial, each having a task in breaking down raw organic matter into finished
compost. The microorganisms i.e. microorganism like bacteria, fungi and actinomycetes done
the enzymatic actions whereas the larger fauna in the heap addition of the nematodes,
earthworms, woodlice, beetles, flies, ants, earwigs, springtails, millipedes, centipedes, mites,
pseudoscorpions and snails, which suck, chew, bite, tear and grind the materials into smaller
pieces, preparing them more suitable for the chemical work of the microscopic decomposers.

Similarly these organisms tunnel in the compost, make the compost heap up and down,
turning it all the while, helping in aeration, needed for the composting process. This is the
reason why studying these organisms in the compost is very important. In pilot works it was
seen that more of the macro-fauna is arthropods among which the insects predominately
increases. To analysis these macro organisms, one has to extract these from the compost utilize
of various physical and dynamic process and preserve in order to find out them.

As backing for extraction of only soil organisms were available and no proper standard
methods were available to extract compost dwelling creatures, methods commonly used by soil
ecologists were modified, tested and used for the study. Among them, the insects were further
separated and studied. The recent present study thus unfolds the diversity of insects which have

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created their niche in the compost and their contribution in the making and development of
compost. (Pejaver Madhuri and Gujarathi Gayatri, 2010)

2.2 VERMICOMPOST

The word “vermicomposting” refers to the utilize of earthworms for composting

organic matter and the latest biotechnology which helps in giving bio-fertilizers in the word of
vermicomposting, for agricultural product utilize and a best quality protein (earthworm
biomass) for supplementing and detecting the nutritional energy needs of animals, faster rate.
Vermicomposting, especially earthworm casts, are the end product of vermicomposting (J.
Marlin Cynthia and K. T. Rajeshkumar, 2012).

It is an aerobic, bio-oxidation and stabilization non-thermophilic method of organic

waste decomposition that looks upon earthworms to fragments, mix and microbial activity.

Vermicomposting is the method of conversion of biodegradable matter by more

earthworms into vermicast. In the ongoing process, the nutrients contained in the organic matter
are partly converted to many bioavailable forms (S Gajalakshmi and S A Abbasi, 2003).
Vermicast is albeit belief to contain hormones and enzymes which it acquires during the
passage of the organic matter through the earthworm gut. The hormones and enzymes are
trusted to stimulate plant growth and decrease plant pathogens. All-in-all, the vermicast is
trusted to be very well organic fertilizer and soil conditioner.

By an increased utilize of chemical fertilizers, India could achieve self-sufficiency in

agriculture. These agrochemicals deteriorate soil health and environment has clothed to be
polluted. Human beings and cattle were adversely affected because of the residues of these
agrochemicals in food product.

The compost prepared through the application of earthworm is called vermicompost

and the technology development of using local species of earthworms for culture or composting
has been known as vermi tech. Vermicompost is usually divided peat like material possessing
excellent structure, porosity, aeration, drainage and moisture water holding capacity
(Tharmaraj K et all., 2011)

2.3 BIOCOMPOST

Use of bio compost for vegetable production in large scale can solve the matter for
disposal of wastes and also solve the shortage of organic matter (M. Ahsanur Rahman et all.,

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2012). On the opposite hand, a judicious combination of organic and inorganic sources of
nutrients could be useful to get an honest economic return with good soil health for the next
crops. Therefore, the most objectives of this present investigation were to gauge the effect of
various doses of bio compost and trash compost alone and their combination with inorganic
fertilizer on growth and yield contributing characters of chili.

Chemical fertilizers increase the quantity of food produced but on the other hand
decreases its nutritional quality and the soil fertility over the successive years. It kills the best
and useful soil organisms which help in renewing the natural fertility. It also impaired the
facility of biological resistance in crops making them more vulnerable to pests and diseases.
The excessive use of nitrogenous fertilizer also led to extend within the level of inorganic
nitrogen content in groundwater leaching effects and in human food with grave consequences
for human health.

2.4 MUSTARD (Brassica nigra)

In the rapeseed-mustard group includes Indian mustard, yellow sarson, brown sarson,
raya, and toria crops. Indian mustard (Brassica juncea (L.) are often raised well under both
irrigated and rain fed conditions. (DES, 2011). Mustard needs higher quantity of nutrients,
particularly N and P for its optimum production. Present study was therefore undertaken to
hunt seek out the effect of vermicompost and chemical fertilizers on growth and productivity
of Indian mustard.

Indian mustard [Brassica juncea (L) Czern & Coss] is predominantly cultivated in the
states of Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Madhya Pradesh, and Gujarat contributing about
81.5% of the total space and 87.5% of the net production in India (DES, 2013).

Indian mustard is that the predominant crop of oilseed Brassica group of crops in India.
Indian mustard oil is a crucial component of the Indian diet. Oil is employed as condiment in
pickles, flavoring curries and vegetables, preparation of hair oils, medicines, and soap making.
The cake obtained after the oil is extracted is employed mostly for cattle feed and manure.
(Pandey et al., 2013).

Green stem and leaves are an honest source of fodder for cattle. Mustard seed, in
general, contains 30-33 % oil, 17-25 % proteins, 8-10 % fibers, 6-10 % moisture, and 10-12 %
extractable substances (Pandey et al., 2013). Intensive cropping has made the soil deficient in
macro and also micronutrients. This has end product in decline in productivity and deterioration

5
in soil health and production. The achievement of any cropping system based upon the
acceptable management of resources including balanced utilize of manures and fertilizers.
Utilize of organic manures maybe prove a vital option for sustaining the productivity (Tejada
et al. 2009).

Vermicompost application has been known to enhance physical, chemical and

biological properties of soil (Nagavallemma et al., 2004). Although, there are numerous
research about the changes in soil properties after organic amendments (Chaney et al., 1992),
there aren’t enough information about the most parameters to be monitored long time to assess
the consequences of vermicompost uses on soil quality. The main objective of the present
study, therefore, was to review the effect of vermicompost and inorganic fertilizers on
properties of soil and yield of Indian mustard.

2.5 FENUGREEK (Trigonella foenum-graecum)

Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.) commonly known as ‘methi’ belonging to

the family- Leguminosae and Sub family-Papilionacea is widely used as spice and condiment
to add flavour in various foods as well as taste (Dwivedi et. al., 2006) .

Fenugreek is that the third highest important seed spice in India (after coriander and
cumin). Rajasthan and Gujarat are the most fenugreek producing states in India. In India, the
area under fenugreek is about 90,500 hectare with an annual production of 1, 10, 530 tonnes
(Source: Cardamoms: Estimate by Spices Board, Calicut, 2014-15). Gujarat is that the leading
and best production state in fenugreek development and it grows mainly in Mehsana, Patan,
Sabarkantha, Banaskantha and Kheda districts. The average productivity of fenugreek within
the country seems to be decreased (1215 kg ha-1) which required to be increased (Lal et al.,
2015).

Fenugreek’s fresh tender leaves also are taken as vegetable which are rich in iron,
calcium, vitamins and essential aminoalkanoic acid. The seeds contain protein, alkaloid
trigonelline (bitter taste), choline, fatty oil, water, mineral matter, carbohydrate, calcium,
phosphorus, fiber, iron and vitamins.

Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.) belongs to Leguminosae. Fenugreek is

cultivated over an area of 45,000 ha in India with a mean production of 56,000 tons. During
2009-2010, India earned Rs. 6972 lakhs as exchange by exporting 21,000 tonnes of fenugreek
(Anonymous, 2010).

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 Vermicompost is a rich source of N, P, K, beside major nutrient, it contain nearly all
the micronutrient hormones like auxin cytokinis, enzymes, vitamins and several useful
bacteria, actinomycetes fungi etc. (Reddy, 2011). Storing in sight present study was undertaken
to review the effect of verimcompost and phosphorus on content of nutrient, uptake and quality
in fenugreek (Trigonella foenum graceum L.).

In view of better growth, yield, quality and more economic returns of fenugreek gain
by adopting organic farming system the present study was carried out to find out the effect of
organics process on growth, yield, quality and economics production of fenugreek.

The seed is bitter in taste thanks to presence of alkaloid referred to as “Trigonelline”

which is taken into account as basic material for the synthesis of cellulose, hemicelluloses and
amino acids. Its roots are endowed with small factory to synthesize nitrogen for plant needs.
Thus, its cultivation enhances the soil in nitrogen. The current global scenario firmly
emphasizes the necessity to adopt eco-friendly agricultural practices for sustainable food
production.

The excessive use of agro-chemicals for the last few years resulted in soil degradation,
ground water and environmental pollution leading to ecological imbalances. In this context, a
keen awareness has got to be created on the adoption of organic farming as a remedy to
maneuver the ill effects from chemical farming.

In recent times many studies showed that organic nutrients could develop the
vegetative growth and yield of seed spices like fennel (Darzi et al., 2008) and coriander (Lal
and Singh, 2016). Recent trends of year in agriculture are middle on reducing the utilization of
inorganic fertilizers by organic manures and biofertilizers (Gyaneshwar et al., 2002 and Darzi
et al., 2011). Different organic sources also play a crucial strategy so as to enhance biological,
chemical and physical conditions of the soil, acquiring whenever greater importance not just
for yields usually achieved but even for the economic utilization and contribution to
environment protection.

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 3. OBJECTIVE OF THE PRESENT STUDY

 To study the utility and efficiency of compost in plants.

 To determine the qualitative analysis of soil, biocompost and vermicompost.
 To analyze the comparison between the effect of biocompost and vermicompost in the
growth rate of mustard and fenugreek.
 To evaluate the growth rate of plant, stem, and root of both mustard and fenugreek in
vermicompost and biocompost that has been taken for study.

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 4. REVIEW OF LITERATURE

With growth and development of the communities, the quantity of urban solid waste
increases, which is now a days considered one of the serious problems for humans’ life; because
increasing use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides in agricultural ecosystems have created
numerous and important as well various problems such as food chain disruption, destruction
of soil resources, and resistance of pests to pesticides (Najar IA and Khan AB, 2013).
4.1 ORGANIC FERTILIZER
Organic fertilizer production and application and the use of biological control methods and
procedure aid in solving many agriculture problems. Among available methods, using an
appropriate one like composting organic materials for biological fertilizer production has been
warmed welcomed extensively (Sheela S and Khimiya S, 2013)
Compost is known as stable aerobically decomposed organic matter which is the result of
a managed decomposition process. During this process, a succession of aerobic micro-
organisms break and split down and transform organic material into a range of increasingly
complex organic substances (Bastida et al., 2010)
Vermitechnology may be a system during which earthworms are utilized for the bio-
conversion of organic waste into vermicompost. Vermicompost has wide uses in organic waste
management and has been proven to be an efficient method to manage organic waste materials
and merchandise with diminutive complexity and economic feasibility (Indrajeet and J. Sigh.
2010).
Vermicompost is a process to convert organic waste into fertilizer taking into account
that the organic waste and compost application in agriculture has many positive effects, so that
it is necessary to conduct research on organic with vermicomposting method by utilizing
worms performance to process raw materials from waste.
Mature compost are stable and have pleasant smell, but if the composting process is
ended prematurely, the resulting immature compost may have negative effects on soils and
plants and have a bad odour (Epstein et al., 2009)
Based on the above facts, therefore, the study of vermicomposting optimization of
organic waste was conducted, which aims to produce vermicompost from urban waste
materials, select one of the three types of worms that have the highest influence in the process
of vermicomposting (Hemalatha, 2013)
The composting process is affected by starting materials (feedstocks), decomposting
organisms and environmental factors (Annabi et al., 2007)

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4.2 RECYCLING OF BIOWASTE
Recycling biowaste of various resources within the sort of compost are often an
alternate to satisfy the increasing demands for organic manures; this may also help to scale
back environmental pollution increasing out of accumulated biowastes (Kumar, 2005).
Biowastes might be recycled by adopting simple and suitable techniques in compost
making and preparing enriched manure. These improved technologies not only reduce the
number but also improve the standard of compost with better plant nutrients (Jagadeesan,
2005).
In today’s era, heavy doses of chemical fertilizers and pesticides are getting used by the
farmers to urge far better yield of varied field crops. These unwanted chemical fertilizers and
pesticides weaker the soil fertility and appears health problems to the consumers. Due to
adverse effects of chemical fertilizers, interest has been stimulated for the utilization of organic
manures. (Follet et al., 1981).
The ‘Green Revolution’ within the 1960s and 70s ushered by the heavy use of agro-
chemicals, increased food productivity but also created several socio-economic and
environmental problems like decreased nutritional quality of food produced, decreased soil
fertility, higher demand for water for irrigation, soil and pollution and pesticide poisonings
(Sinha 1998 and 2004, Sinha et al. 2009).
The pesticide remains same in vegetables can bring neurological and blood disorders,
lung ailments and damages the genital system of girls (Mandal, 2009). It has reported that
indiscriminate utilize of chemical fertilizers within the wake of Revolution in India has pushed
and strengthen the State to the brink of health hazards as ‘blue baby syndrome’ and cancer man
civilization.
The use of waste as an organic fertilizer for direct application to soil generally
experiences a variety of problems, for instance: the waste contains inorganic material that is
not biologically and easily weathered, such as: glass, plastic, metal, trash has high level of C/N
ratio, the composition of organic waste varies too much, and sometimes there is a toxic
compound. Other problems are caused by sewage pollution of the environment by heavy metals
and chemicals (Punde,B.D. and R.A. Ganorkar. 2012)
Waste is an unwanted material flawed or damaged goods in manufacturing, preparing
or fabrication, or from excessive materials which are eliminated or discarded. Waste is
additionally discarded materials from human activities and natural processes which don’t have
value. It is the leftover of human day-to-day activities and natural processes that’s solid.

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Specific waste may be a waste that needs a special treatment due to its nature, concentration,
and volume.
Organic waste is waste consisting of plant and animal materials which were taken
naturally, or produced from agricultural activities, fisheries or other activities, this type of
waste is definitely described in vermicomposting processes.
4.3 TECHNIQUES FOR COMPOSTING

One of the simplest techniques for composting is vermicompost, by employing a

suitable earthworm species like Eisenia fetida. Vermicompost is that the waste of worms
feeding from solid waste, plant waste, and such additives as manures.Vermicompost maybe a
nutrient-rich, microbiologically-active organic amendment that results from the interactions
between earthworms and microorganisms during the breakdown of the organic matter (Alidadi
H et all, 2012).

Organic fertilizers are largely or entirely composed from organic materials which are
derived from plants and animals that are through a technical process. The fertilizers are often
won’t be supply organic matter, and to enhance the physical, chemical and biological soil.
Organic fertilizers are often made up of waste, because it comprises of inorganic and organic
materials.
Organic waste consists of plant and animal materials which were taken from nature, or
produced from agricultural activities, fisheries or other activities, these rubbish is definitely
described within the natural processes (Arun Karnwal and Ravi Kumar, 2012).
4.4 EFFECTS ON CHEMICAL AND BIOLOGICAL PROPERTIES
The addition of compost to soils microorganisms directly by providing a source of
nutrients and indirectly by changing chemical and physical soil properties. Compost stimulates
microbial growth.
Toxic heavy metals like As, Hg, Pb, and Cd may be contaminate or damage the
environment. Heavy metals like As, Cd, Pb, and Hg are activity, but not the extent as fresh
plant residues because it is already decomposed. Compost generally increases the abundance
of soil organisms (including earthworm) (Sutton-Grier et al., 2010very poisonous which can
accumulate in crops such as rice, grass, vegetables, and other crops (Hemalatha, 2012)
It’s a stabilized, finely divided peat-like material with a decrease C: N ratio, high
porosity, and high water-holding capacity, during which most nutrients are present in forms
that are readily taken up by plants. The most important advantage of vermicompost is its diverse

11
and high microbial population. Its other advantage are as follows: good organic fertilizer, low
environmental pollution, and detoxifying some danger chemicals

Recent times, utilize vermicompost has higher because of those benefits and more
researches are takes out to optimize them. Waste of worms often contains nitrogen, phosphorus
and potassium 5 to 11 times more than the bare soil (Alidadi H et all, 2013).

Vermicompost may be a method of waste disposal which is expensive effective, fast

and environmentally friendly. Urban waste are often effectively degraded by earthworms in
vermicompost process leading to the assembly of pathogen-free fertilizer. Organic waste can
be more utilize by converting these into fertilizer using vermicompost method. Although the
nutrients contained within the fertilizer having no significant increase, the ratio of C/N
undergoes significant decrease making plants easily absorb the substance.
Vermicompost plays a crucial role in protecting the environment because it uses waste
as its raw materials, helps building soil fertility and improves soil health for sustainable
agriculture.
Vermicomposting is within the same page with the principle of healthy environment
because it’s the worth of resource conservation and sustainable practices, as a process for
handling organic residue which is an alternate approach in waste management, which isn’t
dumped or incinerated but recycled.
In the composting method, the C/N ratio is one of the most important parameters that
gives an intimation of the decomposition rate, and it is proven that vermicomposting lower the
ratio of C/N significantly.
Vermicompost can significantly improve the expansion and yield of vegetables and
fruits. The effect of vermicompost on plant is caused by the standard of the mineral provided.
It is also to manage the expansion of other components like plant growth hormones, and to
enhance soil quality by increasing microbial activity.
Giving efficient conversion of organic waste, stabilizing the soil conditions, helping in
reducing the population of microbial pathogens and heavy metal toxicity, relatively easy and
cheap economical technology, as well as its function as the most environmentally safe
nutritional supplement for organic crop production is many advantages of using vermicompost
(Talkah, A, 2010)
Green revolution can be attained through adopting the technologies such as countless
use of synthetic chemicals like fertilizers and pesticides, adoption of nutrientre sponsive, high-

12
yielding varieties of crops, greater exploitation of irrigation potentials that has boosted the
production output in most cases.
However, continuous use of those high energy inputs indiscriminately now results in
decline in production and productivity of varied crops also as deterioration of soil health and
environments.
There is clear picture that in India, where on one side pollution is higher day by day due
to accumulation of organic waste and on the other hand there is a great shortage of organic
manure. The organic manure may be increase the fertility and productivity of the land and gives
nutritive and safe food (Ramesh et al., 2005).
4.5 GROWHT RATE IN ORGANIC COMPOST
Applying compost to soils can increase plant nutrient availability (Poll et al., 2008).
Compared to the same amount of N and P added, plant N and P uptake from compost may be
mower than that from inorganic N fertilizer, because the organic N in the compost has to be
mineralised advance it can be taken up by plants or reason of microbial immobilisation of N
(Ebid, 2008).
However, initial slow mineralisation can sustain the release of N for the following
seasons, over a 2 year period, 36-44 % of compost N was mineralised (Passoni and Bonn,
2009).
Compost from these fruits residues, manure, and kitchen waste may be increase the
retention of applied fertilizer N within the soil-plant system by stimulation of plants N
undertake and microbial immobilisation and reduced N leaching and gaseous losses (Steiner et
al., 2008).

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 5. MATERIALS AND METHODS

For the experiment we choose two species of plants and two different composts. The
materials are as follows;

5.1 STUDY SPECIES

Two kinds of plants were taken for the present study.

1. Mustard (Brassica nigra)

2. Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum)

Fig 5.1 Brassica nigra

CLASSIFICATION

Kingdom : Plantae

Clade : Tracheophytes

Clade : Angiosperms

Clade : Eudicots

Clade : Rosids

Order : Brassicales

Family : Brassicaceae

Genus : Brassica

Species : nigra

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 Fig 5.2 Trigonella foenum-graecum

CLASSIFICATION

Kingdom : Plantae

Clade : Tracheophytes

Clade : Angiosperms

Clade : Eudicots

Clade : Rosids

Order : Fabales

Family : Fabaceae

Genus : Trigonella

Species : T. foenum-graecum

5.2 COLLECTION OF SAMPLES

Soil sample were collected from seerapalayam village, Coimbatore, India. And it dried
in shady place and gave to soil testing in Tamil Nadu Agriculture University, Coimbatore.

Fig 5.3 Soil sample

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 Seeds of mustard (Brassica nigra) plant and fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-
graecum) were collected from nursery in TNAU.

5.3 PREPARATION OF FERTILIZERS

5.3.1 Vermicompost Preparation

Decomposable organic wastes such as animal excreta like cow dung, garden wastes are
added and these are used as composting materials. In general, animal dung mostly cow dung
and dried chopped crop residues are the key raw materials. Leaf litter was collected periodically
from the Coimbatore and kept in large plastic container. The collected leaf litter was sun dried,
cut into small pieces of 4 to 5 cm length and kept ready for composting.

Mixture of leguminous and non-leguminous crop residues enriched the quality of

vermicompost.

5.3.2 Earthworm Species

 Eisenia foetida (Red earthworm)

Red earthworm is preferred because of its high multiplication rate and thereby converts
the organic matter into vermicompost within 45-50 days.

5.3.3 Size of the Tank

For preparation of vermicompost, tank has selected with breadth of 4 feet, depth of 3
feet and length of 4 feet. It has cleaned with water without any impure materials or dust. And
after moisturizing the preparation work started.

5.3.4 Steps followed for Vermicompost Preparation

Vermicomposting unit should be in cool, moist and shady site. First coconut fiber, dried
cow dung and chopped dry leafy materials are mixed in the proportion of 1:3:2. A layer of
15 cm of chopped dried leaves/dried cow dung should be kept as bedding materials at the
bottom of the tank. Above that, a layer of 15 cm of garden soil were added. Same method
repeated again to get large amount of vermicompost. Red earthworm 1kg were released on the
upper layer of tank. Water sprinkled immediately after the release of worms. Beds should be
kept moist by sprinkling of water (daily) Moisture levels have to be maintained at around 50%
and it should be covered. It should safeguard against insects and predators so as to prevent
harm to the earthworms.Bed should be turned once after 20 days for maintain aeration and for

16
proper decomposition. Stopped sprinkling water before 3 days to collect vermicompost.
Compost gets ready in 45-50 days. The preparation process are shown at Fig 5.3.4

(a) (b)

(c) (d)

(e) (f)

Fig. 5.4 Steps followed for Vermicompost Preparation

(a) Dried cow dung and chopped dry leafy materials (b) Above that garden soil were
added (c) Earthworm were released on the upper layer (d) Water sprinkled
(e) The compost were covered (f) Vermicompost.

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5.3.5 PREPARATION OF BIOCOMPOST

Table 5.3.1 Ingredients used for preparation of Biocompost

VEGETABLE AND FRUIT WASTES GRAMS

Potato peel 50
Onion peel 50
Ripen Tomato 50
Bitter gourd 50
Banana peel 50
Orange peel 50
Apple peel 50
Pomegranate peel 50
Coriander stem 50
Mint stem 50

Biocompost preparation started under shady place. Kitchen wastes like Vegetables
wastes, fruit waste were added and garden wastes were collected and stored under shady place.
Above that garden soil were added and it keep the bad smell away and it will fasten the
composting process. And same method repeated again and pressed the mix with tool to
compress it. So, that all the items should come into contact with one another. It should be kept
moist by sprinkling of water (daily). Reuse the collected drained water as it contains useful
bacteria essential nutrients. Mixed the compost on a regular basis as it helps to encourage the
growth of the right kind of bacteria that will help the compost to decompost faster. Sieved the
compost. After 45-50days compost are ready. The preparation process are shown at Fig 5.3.5

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 (a) (b)

(c)

Fig 5.5 Preparation of Biocompost

(a) Kitchen wastes like Vegetables wastes, fruit waste collected (b) Biocompost after 30
days (c) Biocompost after 50 days.

5.4 INVESTIGATION

In the present study vermicompost and biocompost samples were tested for chemical
constituents. The compost samples were collected in polythene bags and taken to the TNAU
for investigations. Approximately 500g compost/soil samples were kept in clean polythene
bags with proper labeling for analysis of different chemical parameters.

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5.5 SOWING OF SEEDS AND OBSERVATION OF GERMINATION

Thick grow bag of 4kg capacity in uniform size (25cm X 22cm) were taken and
individually filled with control, soil with biocompost and soil with vermicompost. In grow bag
for Control contains 4 kg of garden soil only, for biocompost 3kg soil+1kg biocompost and for
vermicompost 3kg soil +1kg vermicompost.
The growth of Mustard (Brassica nigra) and Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum)
were studied. Before sowing it, the soil were mixed well. The seeds of mustard (Brassica nigra)
and fenugreek (trigonella foenum-graecum) were taken. Healthy seeds were sowed in each bag
with proper spacing at the depth of 3cm. From the day of sowing the grow bags were watered
regularly for germination and growth of the seedlings and proper care was taken.

(a) (b)

Fig 5.6 (a) Fenugreek seeds, (b) Mustard seeds

5.6 COMPARATIVE STUDY ON THE EFFECT OF VERMICOMPOST AND

BIOCOMPOST

The effect of bio compost and vermicompost on Mustard (Brassica nigra) and
Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum).

Fig 5.7 Grow bag

20
 The temperature range of the greenhouse was maintained. After that, seeds were
allowed to germinate for one week. It was checked regularly and was watered regularly for
one month and the unwanted weeds were taken out. The vermicompost and biocompost were
applied in 3 batches with 10 days gap. Water was poured after 2-3days, till the plants were
grown fully. After that Mustard (Brassica nigra) and Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-
graecum) were measured every week.

5.7 UNDER GREEN SHADE CLOTH

Shade cloth is used to protect plants from too much heat from the sun. It is also used to
improve the diffusion of light and provide ventilation for the plants. One of the important
aspects to consider when selecting a shade cloth is the colour. Shade cloth colour influences
the growth of various plants. Choosing the right colour of shade cloth can make a big difference
to a specific plant. Here is a blog post to help you understand more about shade cloth and how
its colour impacts different plants.

Fig 5.8 Under shade cloth

Using shade cloth can be an effective solution to reduce sunburn for plants. It also
decreases the amount of radiation that reaches the plants. This is because shade cloth can reflect
the air and incoming solar radiation.

21
 6. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

6.1 GROWTH RATE OF MUSTARD (BRASSICA NIGRA)

Control

Biocompost Vermicompost

Fig 6.1 Growth rate of mustard at day 15

The Mustard plant has grown with two various compost without any chemical fertilizer.
The plant has grown under control, biocompost and vermicompost. The growth of control plant
is lower than that of plant with bio compost and vermicompost, and plant with biocompost has
low growth when compared to vermicompost. The plant has high growth in vermicompost
when compared to biocompost and control.

22
6.2 GROWTH RATE OF FENUGREEK (TRIGONELLA FOENUM-GRAECUM)

Control

Biocompost Vermicompost
Fig 6.2 Growth rate of fenugreek at Day 15

The fenugreek plant has grown with two various compost without any chemical
fertilizer. The plant has grown under control, biocompost and vermicompost. The growth of
control plant is lower than that of plant with bio compost and vermicompost, and plant with
biocompost has low growth when compared to vermicompost. The plant has high growth in
vermicompost when compared to biocompost and control.

23
6.3 GROWTH RATE OF MUSTARD AND FENUGREEK

Fig 6.3 Growth rate of mustard and fenugreek at Day 30

These results suggest that vermicompost application is required in organic farming

systems to provide the best direct and residual effect on the availability of soil nutrient, plant
nutrient uptake and growth. Application of vermicompost significantly increased soil nutrient
availability, nutrient uptake and growth of the plant as compared with the control and
biocompost.
The combination of biocompost and vermicompost source of nutrients ensured ready
availability of nutrients for initial requirement through biocompost sources and slow pace as
long term availability through vermicompost source throughout the microgreens period might
have improved adequate biomass production and improvement in growth parameters.
Moreover, organics, besides supplying macro and micronutrients, have also solubilizing effect
on native soil nutrients due to the action of organic acids produced during decomposition and
resulted in higher growth attributes.

24
6.4 MEASUREMENT OF PLANT LENGTH IN MUSTARD

Control Biocompost Vermicompost

(5 Sample plants) (5 Sample plants) (5 Sample plants)

Fig 6.4 Total length, stem length, root length of Mustard

6.4.1 Measurement of Shoot Length

The length of the shoot from the base to the tip of the shoot was measured using the
centimetre scale and the mean length was expressed in cm.
6.4.2 Measurement of Root Length
The root length of the root was measured from the root collar region to the tip of the
root using the centimetre scale and mean length was expressed in cm.

6.4.3 Measurement of total Length

The length of plant was measured from the top to bottom of the plant using the
centimetre scale and mean length was expressed in cm.

25
6.5 MEASUREMENT OF PLANT LENGTH IN FENUGREEK

Control Biocompost Vermicompost

(5 sample plants) (5 sample plants) (5 sample plants)

Fig 6.5 Total length, stem length, root length
6.5.1 Measurement of Shoot Length
The length of the shoot from the base to the tip of the shoot was measured using the
centimetre scale and the mean length was expressed in cm.
6.5.2 Measurement of Root Length
The root length of the root was measured from the root collar region to the tip of the
root using the centimetre scale and mean length was expressed in cm.

6.5.3 Measurement of total Length

The length of plant was measured from the top to bottom of the plant using the
centimetre scale and mean length was expressed in cm.

26
6.6 QUANTITATIVE ANALYSIS OF PLANT GROWTH

6.6.1 Quantitative Analysis of Mustard plant

Table 6.6.1: Table showing the average root length of Mustard (Brassica nigra) in
Control, Biocompost and Vermicompost

Root length 1st Week 2nd Week 3rd Week 4th Week 5th Week

Control 0.7-1 cm 1.3 cm 1.5 cm 1.8 cm 1.9 cm

Biocompost 0.7-1 cm 1.3 cm 1.7-1.9 cm 2 cm 2-2.5 cm

Vermicompost 0.8-1 cm 1.5 cm 1.9-2 cm 2.3-2.7 cm 3-2.5 cm

Average root length of Mustard

4

3.5

3
Plant lenght (cm)

2.5

1.5

0.5

0
Week 1 Week 2 Week 3 Week 4 Week 5

Control Biocompost Vermicompost

Fig 6.6 The average root length of Mustard (Brassica nigra) in

Control, Biocompost and Vermicompost

27
Table 6.6.2: Table showing the average stem length of Mustard (Brassica nigra) in
Control, Biocompost and Vermicompost

Stem length 1st Week 2nd Week 3rd Week 4th Week 5th Week

Control 1-2 cm 3-4 cm 4-5 cm 5-6 cm 7-8 cm

Biocompost 2.5 cm 3 cm 4-5 cm 6-7 cm 8-9 cm

Vermicompost 2.7 cm 3-4 cm 5-6 cm 7-8 cm 8.5-10 cm

Average stem length of Mustard

12

10
Plant lenght (cm)

0
Week 1 Week 2 Week 3 Week 4 Week 5

Control Biocompost Vermicompost

Fig 6.7 The average stem length of Mustard (Brassica nigra) in

Control, Biocompost and Vermicompost

28
Table 6.6.3: Table showing the average growth rate of Mustard (Brassica nigra) in
Control, Biocompost and Vermicompost

Plant lenght 1st Week 2nd Week 3rd Week 4th Week 5th Week

Control 2.9-3 cm 3.8-4 cm 5.5-6 cm 7.7-8 cm 9-10 cm

Biocompost 3-4 cm 4.5 cm 5.7-6.6 cm 8-9 cm 10-11 cm

Vermicompost 3-4 cm 5-5.8 cm 6-7 cm 8-9.8 cm 11-13 cm

Average growth rate of Mustard

16

14

12
Plant lenght (cm)

10

0
Week 1 week 2 week 3 week 4 week 5

Control Biocompost Vermicompost

Fig 6.8 The average growth rate of Mustard (Brassica nigra) in

Control, Biocompost and Vermicompost

The growth parameters such as shoot length, root length, average growth per plant of
mustard plants were studied. It shows that mustard (Brassica nigra) plants growth rate
increased in treated with vermicompost than control and biocompost. Control plants had
minimum growth in all experiments during all the stages of growth. Then the above results
suggest that the vermicompost treated plant had higher quantitative content.

29
6.6.2 Quantitative Analysis of Fenugreek plant

Table 6.6.4: Table showing the average root length of Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-
graecum) in Control, Biocompost and Vermicompost

Root length 1st Week 2nd Week 3rd Week 4th Week 5th Week

Control 0.5-1 cm 1.5 cm 1.7 cm 1.9 cm 2 cm

Biocompost 0.5-1 cm 1.5 cm 1.8 cm 2 cm 2.5 cm

Vermicompost 0.5 cm 1-1.5 cm 2 cm 2.5 cm 3 cm

Average root length of Fenugreek

3.5

2.5
Plant lenght (cm)

1.5

0.5

0
Week 1 Week 2 Week 3 Week 4 Week 5

Control Biocompost Vermicompost

Fig 6.9 The average root length of Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum) in

Control, Biocompost and Vermicompost

30
Table 6.6.5: Table showing the average stem length of Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-
graecum) in Control, Biocompost and Vermicompost

Stem length 1st Week 2nd Week 3rd Week 4th Week 5th Week

Control 1-1.5 cm 2-3 cm 3.5-4.5 cm 5-6 cm 7-9 cm

Biocompost 1.5-2 cm 2.5-3 cm 4-5 cm 6-7 cm 9-10 cm

Vermicompost 1-2 cm 3-4 cm 5-6 cm 8-9 cm 10-11 cm

Average stem length of Fenugreek

12

10
Plant lenght (cm)

0
Week 1 Week 2 Week 3 Week 4 Week 5

Control Biocompost Vermicompost

Fig 6.10 The average stem length of Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum) in

Control, Biocompost and Vermicompost

31
Table 6.6.6: Table showing the average growth rate of Fenugreek (Trigonella
foenumgraecum) in Control, Biocompost and Vermicompost

Plant length 1st Week 2nd Week 3rd Week 4th Week 5th Week

Control 2.5-3 cm 3.5-4 cm 5-6 cm 7-8 cm 9-11 cm

Biocompost 2.7-3.5 cm 4-5 cm 5.5-7 cm 8-9.5 cm 12-13 cm

Vermicompost 2.5-3 cm 5-6 cm 8-9 cm 11-12 cm 14-15 cm

Average growth rate of Fenugreek

16

14

12
Plant lenght (cm)

10

0
Week 1 Week2 Week 3 Week 4 Week 5

Control Biocompost Vermicompost

Fig 6.11 The average growth rate of Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum) in

Control, Biocompost and Vermicompost

The present investigation reveal that fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum) grow

much faster in vermicompost treated soil than the control and biocompost. The average plant
length, root and stem during the growth period in vermicompost and biocompost were given.
Control plants had minimum growth in all experiments during all the stages of growth. Then
the above results suggest that the vermicompost treated plant had higher quantitative content
when compared to the control and Biocompost.

32
6.8 QUALITATIVE ANALYSIS

6.8.1 Qualitative analysis of soil

Soil were collected under the depth of 30-50cm, soil texture is sandy clay loam, whereas soil
type is reddish brown and lime status of soil is calcareous.

Table 6.8.1 Qualitative analysis of soil

Parameter Value Unit Comments

Organic carbon 0.42 (%) Low
pH 8.25 Slightly alkaline
EC 0.24 ds m-1 Non saline
Moisture 21 (%) -
Water holding capacity 2.50 (%) -
Available N 204 kg ha-1 Low
Available P 18.0 kg ha-1 Medium
Available K 317 kg ha-1 High
Available Zn 1.2 ppm Sufficient
Available Cu 1.08 ppm Deficient
Available Fe 5.42 ppm Deficient
Available Mn 4.22 ppm Sufficient
Available Ca 290 Low
Available Mg 3.6 -
Available Na 0.2 -

The physicochemical study of parameters is important to agricultural chemists for

plants growth and soil management. The chemical parameters like organic carbon, pH, electric
conductivity, Nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, zinc, copper, iron, manganese, calcium,
magnesium and sodium were analysed. These studies give information about nature of soil,
present nutrient in soil.

33
6.8.2 Qualitative analysis of Biocompost and Vermicompost

Table 6.8.2 Qualitative analysis of Biocompost and vermicompost

PARAMETERS BIOCOMPOST VERMICOMPOST

VALUES VALUES
Organic carbon (%) 12.2 21.50
pH 7.72 8.02
EC (dS m-1) 3.65 3.88
Moisture 29 32
Water holding capacity (%) 3.09 4.60
Available N (%) 242 355
Available P (%) 2.9 4.25
Available K (%) 653 950
Available Zn (ppm) 16.5 14.9
Available Cu (ppm) 15.9 10.9
Available Fe (ppm) 15.42 21.9
Available Mn (ppm) 69.0 96.5
Available Ca (mg/kg) 425 340
Available Mg (mg/kg) 2.90 4.50
Available Na (%) 0.29 0.30

Physical chemical properties of compost samples was studied, all the samples are black
grey in colour and have unpleasant smell. In biocompost the parameters like Zn, Cu, Ca were
higher than vermicompost. Chemical parameters like organic carbon, pH, electric conductivity,
Nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, iron, manganese, magnesium and sodium were higher in
vermicompost than biocompost. According to the values, the vermicompost is higher when
compared to biocompost. The pH of is one of the most important physicochemical parameter.
It affects mineral nutrient soil quality and much microorganism activity. The pH of soil samples
shows variation 7.72 to 8.02, the above 7.5 value of pH shows basic nature. The Conductivity
study of compost samples shows variation in conductivity values. These values are shown in
table 6.8.2.

34
 7. SUMMARY AND CONCLUSION

Concluded that the increase in growth rate of plant of microgreens with addition of
vermicompost as compared to using biocompost. And also chemical parameters was high in
vermicompost when compared to biocompost.

This study discussed in this review attest to the multiple benefits associated with compost
application to agricultural soils, including improved moisture, water-holding capacity, EC,
nutrient levels.
 Vermicompost is rich in all essential plant nutrients.
 Provides excellent effect on overall plant growth encourages the growth of new shoots
/ leaves and improves the quality and shelf life of the produce.
 Vermicompost is free flowing, easy to apply, handle and store and does not have bad
odour. It provides efficient conversion of organic wastes/crop/animal residues.
 It improves soil structure, texture, aeration, and water holding capacity and prevents
soil erosion. It is a stable and enriched soil conditioner. It helps in reducing population
of pathogenic microbes.
 Vermicompost contains earthworm cocoons and increases the population and activity
of earthworm in the soil.
 It neutralizes the soil protection. It helps in reducing the toxicity of heavy metals.
 It prevents nutrient losses and increases the use efficiency of chemical fertilizers.
 Vermicompost is free from pathogens, toxic elements, weed seeds etc.

Addtition of vermicompost into microgreens with N, P, K nutrients could be very effective

response on the growth of microgreens . The mineralization of organic matter, decrease of soil
pH by organic acids produced in vermicompost and increases micronutrient complexes
formation. According to experiment results positive effect of vermicompost on growth rate of
microgreens is recommended the study of vermicompost effects on seed germination and pH
of vermicompost , as compared with biocompost in the case of microgreens examined. Effects
of vermicompost in farm is being studied.
Among the physical properties of vermicompost, water absorption is of high importance.
Therefore, the more moisture, water holding capacity, and presence of nutrients, the better
yields the plant can have. It seems that earthworms have a role in enhancement of the solubility
of the mineral iron or its maintenance in absorbable form in the fertilizer and contribute to the
production of vermicompost.

35
 Vermicompost can reduce health and environmental problems. Vermicompost has
detoxifying ability, thus its cultivation products are safe. Also, vermicompost is safe for
farmers. In this regard, yield of the plants treated with cow manure dosage and it decreased,
which is probably due to its high pH relative to the vermicompost fertilizer.

Vermicompost will increase soil organic matter status, which act as a reservoir for nutrients
and hence improve soil physicochemical attributes or yield under dryland condition. This study
indicates that combined application of compost like vermicompost and biocompost fertilizers
help to increase crop productivity and improve soil fertility and soil quality. Present
investigations will be useful to farmers; agronomist, researchers and environmentalists as it
will provide information in maintaining long term soil fertility; sustained higher productivity
of crop and lessen the harm caused to the soil by the use of chemical fertilizers.
Vermicomposting showed a higher potential in retaining nutrients within cattle manure than
other manure management methods, such as composting. In addition, a product
(vermicompost) rich in macronutrients N, P, and K was produced.

High-quality vermicompost can be produced by worms such as the red wrigglers (E.
foetida). It contains humus with high levels of nutrients such as nitrogen, potassium, calcium,
and magnesium. Indeed, the use of red wriggler worms to produce vermicompost has good
potential for the production of organic fertilizer. The review also suggests that vermicompost
should be used at appropriate rate depending on type of crops grown and its nutrient
requirement for cost effectiveness. Earthworms are used to break down organic matter to
produce compost. The process consists of these composting worms transforming organic
matter into worm castings using their natural digestive function. The benefits of vermicompost
add to those already associated with compost, such as the presence of macro and micronutrients
and the buffer action of soil for nutrient availability.

Vermicompost can significantly improve the growth of plants. The effect of

vermicompost on plant is caused by the quality of the mineral provided. It is also to regulate
the growth of other components such as plant growth, and to improve soil quality by increasing
microbial activity. In the present study the effect of biocompost and vermicompost on the
germination, growth and parameters on microgreens like mustard and fenugreek grown in
control soil was studied. Reported that the slightly alkaline in pH , reduction of organic carbon,
calcium, manganese, zinc and significant elevations particularly in nitrogen, phosphorus and
potassium levels in the vermicompost compared to control levels.

36
 It can be concluded from this study that the use of Vermicompost resulted in increasing
the height of plants and also resulted in decreasing the incidence of diseases in plants.So
Vermicompost can be a better option than synthetic fertilizers in increasing the fertility of soil
and in turn increasing the productivity. Also it would reduce the pollution load of our
environment.
Vermicompost is a method of waste disposal which is costly effective, fast and
environmentally friendly. Organic waste can be more useful by converting them into fertilizer
using vermicompost process. Vermicompost plays an important role in protecting the
environment because it uses waste as its raw materials, helps building soil fertility and
improves soil health for sustainable agriculture. According to this information farmers can
arrange the amount of which fertilizers and nutrients needed to soil for increase the percentage
growth of plants.

37
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