A Review of the Role of Vermicompost in Enhancing Crop Productivity and Soil Health
V. Motcha Rakkini, F. Janeeta Priya, Rinaldo De David, Suresh Malakondaiah, M. Menakha, S. Magdalin Sylvia, K. Brindha
Academia and Society, Vol. 12, No. 1, 2025.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.6025/aas/2025/12/1/21-34
Link: https://www.dline.info/aas/fulltext/v12n1/aasv12n1_2.pdf
Abstract:
Vermicompost is a nutrient-rich, sustainable biofertilizer produced through the
combined action of earthworms and microorganisms on organic waste. It
enhances soil fertility and plant growth by supplying essential macro- and micronutrients (N, P, K, Ca, Mg, Zn, etc.) in bioavailable forms, improving soil
structure, water retention, and aeration. Crucially, vermicompost contains plant
growth regulators-such as auxins, gibberellins, and cytokinins-and humic
substances that stimulate seed germination, root development, and nutrient
uptake. Research shows it boosts plant biomass (up to 78% in shoots), cropyield (averaging 26% increase), and quality (e.g., higher vitamin C and sugar
content in tomatoes). It also strengthens plant health by inducing systemic
resistance against pests and diseases, suppressing pathogens such as Fusarium
and Rhizoctonia, and enhancing tolerance to abiotic stresses, such as drought
and salinity. Economically, vermicompost reduces dependence on synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, lowers input costs, and improves profitability-evidenced
by a growing global market projected to reach USD 270.25 million by 2030. Its
role in sustainable and organic farming is pivotal, promoting circular nutrient
management, soil restoration, and ecological balance. The document concludes
that vermicomposting is a cost-effective, eco-friendly solution essential for
regenerative agriculture, with future research needed to optimize large-scale
systems and integrate it with other sustainable practices like precision farming
and biofertilizers.