Enriched pressmud vermicompost production with green manure plants using Eudrilus eugeniae

Area of Science:

• Agricultural Science
• Environmental Science
• Soil Science

Background:

• Pressmud, a byproduct of sugar refining, requires effective treatment for sustainable disposal.
• Incorporating organic amendments like cow dung and green manures can enhance the composting process.
• Earthworms, such as Eudrilus eugeniae, are effective agents in vermicomposting for nutrient recycling.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the vermicomposting of pressmud using Eudrilus eugeniae with cow dung and nitrogenous green manures.
• To assess the changes in physicochemical properties and microbial populations during vermicomposting.
• To determine the optimal combination for producing nutrient-rich vermicompost.

Main Methods:

• Vermicomposting of pressmud with cow dung and Gliricidia sepium or Leucaena leucocephala using Eudrilus eugeniae for 50 days.
• Analysis of pH, total organic carbon, C/N ratio, water-soluble organic carbon, C/P ratios, and NPK content.
• Monitoring of microbial populations and enzyme activities (dehydrogenase, urease, phosphatases).

Main Results:

• Significant reduction in pH, total organic carbon, C/N, Cws/Norg, and C/P ratios observed.
• Marked increase in NPK content and microbial population in the final vermicompost.
• Enhanced total kjeldahl nitrogen (TKN) of 3.80% and 3.45% with L. leucocephala and G. sepium, respectively.
• Enzyme activities declined towards the end, indicating vermicompost maturity.
• Pressmud and green manure substrates supported higher earthworm biomass, while cow dung and green manure favored reproduction.

Conclusions:

• Vermicomposting pressmud with cow dung and green manures (L. leucocephala or G. sepium) in a 2:1:1 ratio produces nutrient-enriched vermicompost.
• The process effectively reduces undesirable parameters and increases essential nutrients and microbial activity.
• This method offers a sustainable approach to managing pressmud and generating valuable organic fertilizer.