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Vermicompost (Earthworm Castings)
The gold standard of organic fertilizers. Earthworm castings contain 5x more N, 7x more P, 11x more K than surrounding soil, plus plant growth hormones and beneficial microbes.
Quick Facts
Nitrogen (N)
1.8%
Phosphorus (P)
1.2%
Potassium (K)
1.2%
Microbial Activity
high
Cost / Acre
₹4,000–8,000 (if purchased)
Shelf Life
1–2 years dry stored
Application Guide
Rate: 2–4 t/ha at planting. 500 kg/ha top-dress.
Frequency: Each season at planting. Monthly top-dress for vegetables.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Organic matter (food waste, crop residues, cow dung — 50% pre-decomposed) | As available | — |
| Eisenia fetida / Perionyx excavatus (red wigglers) | 1 kg worms per m² bed | — |
| Bedding (coir pith, dried leaves, straw) | 20 cm base layer | — |
Preparation Steps
1
Set up concrete tank or raised bed: 1m × 2m × 0.5m
2
Fill with 20cm moist bedding (coir + dried leaves)
3
Add worms at 1 kg/m². Keep in dark, moist conditions.
4
Feed every 7–10 days: 5–10 cm layer of pre-composted organic matter
5
Harvest at 45–60 days: castings look like dark coffee grounds
⏱ 45–60 days
⚠️ Important Notes
- •Keep worm beds below 35°C — worms die in heat
- •Maintain 60–70% moisture
- •No citrus, onion, or acidic waste