Revitalizing Soil Quality using Vermicompost at St. Philomena's (Autonomous) College Campus, Bannimantap, Mysore, Karnataka

Abstract

Soil quality is a crucial determinant of agricultural productivity and ecosystem sustainability. This study investigates the role of vermicompost as an effective amendment for revitalizing soil quality at St. Philomena's College (Autonomous) Mysore, focusing on its effects on physicochemical properties, biological activity and overall soil health. Vermicompost is the product of organic waste processing by earthworms, resulting in a nutrient-rich material that enhances soil structure, fertility and microbial diversity. Field experiments were conducted across diverse agro-ecosystems within the college's agricultural research facilities to assess the impact of varying vermicompost application rates on soil characteristics and plant growth. Key parameters measured included soil pH, organic matter content, nutrient availability (nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium), microbial biomass, and plant growth metrics such as height, biomass. The results indicated significant improvements in soil structure, with increased aggregation and porosity, which facilitated enhanced water retention and aeration. Notably, vermicompost application led to a marked increase in organic matter levels, providing a sustained release of essential nutrients over time. Additionally, the combination of vermicompost with other organic amendments significantly increased plant growth parameters. For instance, studies have shown that vermicompost can enhance plant height by up to 26% and total biomass by 13% compared to controls. The also highlight the potential of vermicompost not only to ameliorate degraded soils but also to serve as a viable strategy for organic waste management. This study emphasizes the importance of integrating vermicompost into soil management regimes at St. Philomena's College to promote long-term soil health, enhance agricultural productivity including significant increases in plant growth and mitigate environmental impacts from conventional farming practices. Overall, vermicompost emerges as a multifaceted solution for revitalizing soil quality and improving plant growth, underscoring the need for broader adoption in modern agricultural systems.