Vermiculture: Meaning, Technique, Preparation, Methods, Process, Uses and Benefits

Vermiculture Overview

Vermiculture is a method that utilizes specific species of earthworms to transform organic waste into a valuable product called Vermicompost. This process involves the participation of worms in decomposing organic waste and converting it into a nutrient-rich fertilizer. The worms consume the decomposing organic material and excrete what is commonly known as worm manure.

Commonly used earthworm species in Vermiculture include Eisenia Andrei, Eisenia fetida, Lumbricus rubellus in temperate climates, and Pheretima Perionyx, Hawanya Excavatus, and Eudrilus Eugeniae in tropical regions.

To summarize, Vermiculture and Vermicomposting involve the cultivation of earthworms and their utilization in breaking down organic waste to produce nutrient-rich fertilizers.

What is Vermiculture?

Vermiculture is the scientific technique of cultivating worms or artificially producing worms to break down organic food waste into a nutrient-rich material. Vermicompost is the byproduct of earthworms devouring farmyard manure and roughage, as well as farm rubbish. The resulting vermicompost contains a high concentration of minerals and other plant growth-promoting chemicals, and it can supply vital mineral nutrients to promote and support plant growth.

History of Vermiculture

The vermiculture procedure was first introduced in the 1970s by biology instructor Mary Appelhif. She developed the idea of employing red wiggler worms (Eisenia fetida) in both indoor and outdoor systems to transform kitchen waste into worm compost. That's how we obtained it since her plan succeeded.

Vermiculture Technique

In vermiculture, there are three main techniques for harvesting worms: 

Manual Process

In order to sell worms on a small basis, farmers usually use this technique. With the use of hands, the worms are directly removed from the soil. The organic matter that includes earthworms is left on a flat surface and is exposed to the sun. Since earthworms are sensitive to light, it should be noted that as soon as they are in the presence of sunshine, they immediately descend below the surface. When the worms are visible, the harvester will then scrape off the top layer of organic material.

Migration Method

The technique of vermiculture is based on the fact that worms have a tendency to move to new areas in search of food or in response to light or dryness, both of which are damaging to worms. For harvesting migration procedures, individuals, therefore, prefer to utilize onion bags and screens.

In one of two ways, screens are used. The first option is the most basic and well-liked. The bottom of the screen is used to construct a box in this vermiculture procedure. Between 1/5′′ and 1/9′′ of mesh is needed. As a result, there are two choices for this vermiculture procedure.

·Downward-Migration Method

The downward-migration method is very similar to the manual harvesting method. The worms are urged to crawl in this vermiculture method using light. The worms will migrate downward through the screen into a container that has already been weighed and is filled with damp peat moss, which is where the screening system differs from the manual procedure. 

After all the worms have been put into the container through the screen, the organic compost that was formed in the box will be removed. Then, individuals typically add fresh, worm-infested compost to the box.

This vermiculture process will go on until the damp peat moss box is full and has achieved the necessary weight. With the harvester travelling from one box to the next, this technique of worm collection can also be set up in several locations simultaneously, saving time that would otherwise be required to wait for the worms to migrate.

·Upward-Migration Method

The upward-migration vermiculture method is similar to the downward-migration approach except that it allows worms to make their way upward. However, in this case, the mesh-bottomed box will be placed right in the worm bed. Peat moss is added to the box first, and then the worm-attracting food is sprinkled on top. Among the components of this diet are fresh animal dung and coffee grounds. The box will then be taken out, and the weight will be calculated. After visually determining that the majority of the worms had moved into the organic material, it is carried out.

Mechanical Method    

A mechanical harvester is used in this vermiculture process for capturing worms. A trommel screen, commonly referred to as a rotary screen, is used to separate materials. It is cylindrical and about 4 feet broad by 11 feet long. The cylinder's walls are made of screened materials with various mesh sizes. 

The cylinder is powered by an electric motor. The gadget is positioned at an angle on the top side of the trommel. Following that, castings and worm beds are added by the mechanical harvester. As soon as the rotation starts, the worm castings will fall through the screen, and the worms will go via the trammel mechanism and into the wheelbarrow.

Types of Earthworms Used in Vermiculture

In order to make the soil efficient for agricultural use, earthworms play a vital role in the process of breaking down organic waste in the soil. In other words, earthworms recycle organic waste produced by various life forms to produce humus, improving the soil quality required for cultivation. In the vermiculture process, earthworms are separated into four kinds (ecotypes) based on their feeding and burrowing habits.

1. Epigeic earthworms: These earthworms inhabit the uppermost layer of the soil. They do not dig burrows but instead feed on organic matter found on the soil surface. Epigeic earthworms are relatively small in size, ranging from crimson to red-brown in color, and do not have stripes.
2. Endogeic earthworms: Endogeic earthworms are burrowing worms that create horizontal tunnels and feed on organic material below the soil surface. They are small in size and primarily feed on nutrient-rich soil. These earthworms do not have distinct coloring and appear pale in appearance.
3. Anecic earthworms:Anecic earthworms feed on soil litter by burrowing deep vertical holes into the soil. They can be found in both shallow and deep burrows. Their castings are commonly found in meadows. Anecic earthworms are larger in size and have bodies with distinct colors on the dorsal side. The head portion is typically red or brown, while the tail is lighter compared to the head.
4. Compost earthworms: These earthworms are typically found in compost pits. They thrive in moist and warm conditions with readily available compost material. When these earthworms consume compost material, they contribute to the creation of vermicompost. Compost earthworms are characterized by their striped appearance and red colouration.

Vermiculture Process

Farmers multiply earthworms by mixing large amounts of organic waste, including plant materials and animal manure, in a 1:1 ratio. After the substrate medium has been created, 40 to 50 different species of earthworms are released into it while being shielded from the environment.

The development of earthworms depends on routine maintenance. The temperature should be between 15 and 25 ° Celsius, with a moisture level of 80-90%. 

Depending on this process and other variables, the earthworms can multiply up to 300 times in one to two months, at which point they can be harvested.

Vermicomposting

Vermicompost is a nutrient-rich organic fertilizer produced through the process of vermicomposting. It involves using specific species of earthworms to break down organic waste materials, such as kitchen scraps and garden waste, into valuable compost. The worms consume the organic matter, digest it, and excrete nutrient-rich castings. This vermicompost is a highly beneficial fertilizer that improves soil fertility, enhances plant growth, and promotes sustainable gardening and agriculture.

Materials Used for Vermicomposting

• Crop residues
• Vegetable waste
• Cattle dung
• Dried leaves
• Waste from agro-industries
• A suitable container
• Shed
• Pits
• Water supply
• Earthworms

Vermicomposting Preparation

1. First, a container of the appropriate size is selected, and a worm bed is prepared at the bottom. The bed consists of a mixture of old papers, sugar cane trash, paddy husk, and coir waste. A thin layer of soil is added, and the humidity is maintained at 40-45%.
2. Next, a combination of organic waste, biogas plant slurry, and cattle dung is spread over the bed. It is left to partially decompose for two weeks, during which the temperature rises to 50-55 degrees Celsius. To eliminate harmful microorganisms, 5-10% neem cake is added.
3. Once the temperature cools down to 30 degrees Celsius, around 500 earthworms are introduced per 100 kilograms of organic material. The bed is covered with straw and jute cloth to protect the worms. The temperature is maintained between 20-30 degrees Celsius, and the moisture content is kept at 45-50%. The pH level is maintained between 6.5-7.
4. After approximately 60 days, the compost is ready. To separate the worms, the vermicompost is spread on a plastic sheet in a heap under sunlight. As earthworms are sensitive to sunlight, they move to the bottom of the heap, allowing the top layer of compost to be removed.

Vermiculture Advantage

1. Vermiculture is known for its cost-effectiveness.
2. The benefits of vermiculture encompass soil aeration, soil fertilization, and the supply of essential nutrients to plants.
3. Earthworms contribute to improving soil structure, and fertility, and promoting soil aggregation.
4. It stimulates plant growth, leading to increased agricultural productivity and improved crop quality.
5. Earthworms enhance the rate of water infiltration as their tunnels aid in water absorption by the soil.
6. The presence of earthworms enriches the soil with minerals, thereby increasing the availability of nutrients for plants.
7. Earthworms can be utilized as a source of pet food and fish feed.
8. Vermiculture plays a role in balancing soil pH. By examining the earthworm castings, farmers can assess if the soil pH is neutral.
9. Earthworms assist in composting plant waste and waste management.
10. Earthworms contribute to the growth of microorganism populations, including those involved in nitrogen fixation, which are abundant around earthworm burrows.
11. Vermiculture helps in reducing water and energy consumption associated with waste disposal systems.
12. It requires less labor, occupies minimal space, and demands minimal maintenance.

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Vermiculture Disadvantages

1. It is a time-consuming process that takes around 6 months.
2. There can be a faint smell while it's happening.
3. Maintenance is important since it needs to be kept in good working condition for a long time.
4. If you aren't paying enough attention, there is a possibility of infection and pest problems.

Vermiculture Uses

1. Organic Waste Management: Vermiculture is widely used for the efficient management of organic waste. Earthworms can consume a variety of organic materials, including kitchen scraps, yard waste, and agricultural residues. Vermiculture helps in converting these organic wastes into nutrient-rich vermicompost, reducing the amount of waste sent to landfills and promoting recycling.
2. Soil Improvement: Vermicompost produced through vermiculture is a valuable soil amendment. It improves soil structure, enhances nutrient content, and increases microbial activity. Vermicompost provides essential nutrients to plants, improves water retention capacity, and promotes healthy root development. It can be used in gardens, lawns, agricultural fields, and nurseries to improve soil fertility and overall plant growth.
3. Sustainable Agriculture: Vermiculture plays a significant role in sustainable agriculture practices. By using vermicompost as a natural fertilizer, farmers can reduce their reliance on synthetic chemical fertilizers. Vermicompost enhances soil health, reduces the need for synthetic pesticides, and promotes the growth of beneficial soil organisms. This approach helps in maintaining long-term soil fertility, minimizing environmental pollution, and producing healthier and more sustainable food crops.
4. Horticulture and Landscaping: Vermiculture finds applications in horticultural practices and landscaping. Vermicompost can be used as a potting mix, soil amendment for flower beds, and nutrient supplement for ornamental plants, trees, and shrubs. It improves soil quality, supports plant growth, and enhances the overall aesthetic appeal of gardens and landscapes.
5. WasteWater Treatment: Earthworms have the ability to break down and process organic matter present in wastewater. Vermiculture systems can be employed in wastewater treatment plants or constructed wetlands to enhance the breakdown of organic pollutants and improve water quality. Earthworms play a vital role in the natural filtration and purification of wastewater, contributing to sustainable water management practices.
6. Research and Education: Vermiculture serves as a valuable tool in research and educational settings. Scientists and researchers study earthworm behavior, their role in nutrient cycling, and the effects of vermicompost on plant growth. Vermiculture also provides opportunities for hands-on learning and environmental education, allowing individuals to understand the importance of organic waste management and sustainable agriculture.

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Vermiculture Facts

1. Vermicompost helps reduce landfill waste and is beneficial to the environment.
2. Garden plants grow quite well in the worm liquid at the bottom of the worm bin. Worm tea is another name for it.
3. By adding nutrients, worm casting can increase soil fertility.
4. Worms have five hearts but no eyes or ears.
5. Through their skin, they breathe.

Vermiculture Things to Remember

1. Vermicompost is safe for the environment and can help lessen landfill waste.
2. The worm liquid at the bottom of the worm bin is great for the growth of garden plants. It is also known as worm tea.
3. Worm casting can raise soil fertility by refilling the soil with nutrients.
4. Worms lack sight and ears but have five hearts.
5. Through their skin, they take in and let out the air.
6. Direct sunlight should be kept away from the compost pit.
7. Defend the worms against pests like rats, birds, ants, and other creatures.
8. To maintain a constant moisture level, spritz the pit with water as necessary.