Journal of Agricultural Science and Food Research
Open Access

Abstract

Vermicompost a Sustainable Bio-Stimulant and Control for Agricultural Enhancement in Africa

David Olusoji Alabi* and Kuben Naidoo

Agricultural productivity is characterized by soil, landform and climate change. Only 3% of the soil is fertile in South Africa which necessitates the need for improvement in agricultural practices. Several agricultural practices involve cropping systems, conventional ploughing, and hillside farming which tend to threaten the ecosystem due to frequent cropping, erosion, and leaching. Nutrients are frequently depleted from the soil, organic matter content is depleted, and the activities of microbes are hindered. A valuable biotechnological technique produced through a process called vermicomposting was discovered to improve soil characteristics. It involves combining various agricultural wastes, ranging from plant residue to animal droppings, to produce a harmless and odourless substance. This was found useful because composting waste with worms reduces greenhouse gas emissions. This product helps to control a wide range of pests and diseases of plants. In addition, the activities of invasive plants are suppressed which helps to restore nutrients into the soil. Vermicompost is efficient at stimulating germination, plant growth, and significantly increasing crop yield.

Published Date: 2022-02-11; Received Date: 2022-01-12