Vegetable wastes vermicompost and vegetable production

In India, enormous amount of crop residues are produced from vegetable cultivation. These residues are valuable sources of organic carbon and several essential nutrients. Instead of disposing, it can be used as a source of organic waste and effectively recycled for the production of vermicompost. Presence of humic acid, growth regulators, vitamins, micronutrients and beneficial microorganism increases the availability of plant nutrients, results in enhanced seed germination, seedling growth and photosynthetic efficiency of plants. This manifested in better vegetative growth, flowering, fruit setting and ultimately higher yield and better quality product. Regular application of vermicompost in combination with inorganic fertilizers and biofertilizer will ensure better remuneration from vegetable cultivation. In addition to improving the fertilizer use efficiency the practice will help in sustaining the fertility and productivity of soil. The author has attempted to provide scientific and technical information on vegetable wastes vermicompost and vegetable production for the benefit of students, professionals, extension workers, vegetable growers and amateur gardeners.