Influence of Vermicompost Application on Soil Physico-Chemical Properties and Crop Productivity
Abstract
Vermicompost has emerged as one of the most effective organic soil amendments for improving soil quality, enhancing crop productivity, and promoting sustainable agricultural practices. Produced through the biological decomposition of organic wastes by earthworms and associated microorganisms, vermicompost is rich in essential plant nutrients, beneficial microorganisms, humic substances, enzymes, and plant growth regulators. Unlike conventional organic manures, vermicompost possesses superior physical, chemical, and biological properties that improve soil fertility while reducing dependence on synthetic fertilizers. Numerous studies have demonstrated that the application of vermicompost significantly enhances soil structure, water-holding capacity, aeration, porosity, cation exchange capacity, and microbial activity. It also increases the availability of essential nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, magnesium, and micronutrients, thereby improving nutrient uptake and crop performance. In addition to improving soil physico-chemical characteristics, vermicompost stimulates root development, photosynthesis, flowering, fruiting, and overall crop productivity through the release of plant growth-promoting substances. Its continuous application contributes to long-term soil health, carbon sequestration, and environmental sustainability by recycling organic wastes and minimizing chemical fertilizer use. However, large-scale adoption of vermicompost is constrained by factors such as limited production capacity, labor-intensive preparation, transportation costs, and inconsistent quality. This paper examines the influence of vermicompost application on soil physico-chemical properties and crop productivity, highlighting its mechanisms of action, agronomic benefits, challenges, and future prospects as an important component of sustainable and climate-resilient agriculture.