A process for efficient recycling of any agricultural
waste, crop residues, animal waste such as dung and wine into useful
manure with the help of earthworms is called vermcomposting. The end
product of vermicomposting is called vermicompost. Unlike farmyard manure,
vermicompost is a better source of macronutrients, micronutrients and
homones, which help in promoting better plant growth.
Different species of earthworms utilised for compost
making are of 4 types.
They are :
1) Eadrilus euginiae
-
Non burrowing type
2) Eisenia foetida
-
Non burrowing type
3) Pheritima elongata
-
Burrowing type
4) Peronex excavatus
-
Burrowing type
Non burrowing species are mostly used for compost making.
Preparation of vermicompost
Vermicomposting is to be taken up in shady and elevated
places. Pits measuring 4x1x0.75m (Length, width and depth) are to be
dug. The walls of the pits are to be strengthened by stone slabs (1.2x0.6m)
all round by burying their base along the sides of the pits to a depth
of 0.3m. Base of the pits are to be filled with sand to a thickness
of 0.05m (5cm). Over sand three layers of FYM, FY + agricultural waste
and FYM are to be spread in the pits in such a way that the proportion
of FYM and agricultural waste are in the ratio of 25:75 percent by weight.
The earthworms are to be spread uniformly in between the layers of during
and agriculture waste.
Maintain about 40-50% moisture on the beds. On alternate
days, sprinkle water and dung slurry for two month for the maintenance
of moisture and food for the young worms.
The vermicompost will be ready by two months (60 days)
depending upon the proper maintenance of the beds. The worms are to
be protected from rats, ants, birds & lizards.
