Natural Fertilizer
Often referred to as black gold, vermicompost is a superior natural fertilizer that significantly improves soil and plant health. It boasts an impressive nutrient content, containing approximately 2 times more calcium, 5 times more nitrogen, and 7 times more phosphorus and potassium compared to regular soil or kitchen compost. The abundance of microbial activity in vermicompost is a key factor contributing to its effectiveness. This richness comes from a powerful combination of enzymes and beneficial symbiotic bacteria derived from the digestive systems of the worms. As a result, it enriches the soil with healthy bacteria and fungi, making essential nutrients readily available to plants.
When applying vermicompost for soil drenching, there’s no need for dilution. However, if you choose to spray it, it’s advisable to dilute it with water at a 1:1 ratio.
Preparing Vermicompost Tea
To prepare vermicompost tea, you’ll need water, jaggery, molasses, or brown sugar, vermicompost, and a cotton cloth. Take 20 liters of water in a plastic container and add 100 grams of jaggery, which acts as a source of nutrients to support microbial growth during fermentation. Allow the jaggery to dissolve completely, which typically takes about 10-15 minutes. Meanwhile, place 500 grams of vermicompost into a cotton cloth and securely tie it.
Once the jaggery is fully dissolved, submerge the vermicompost bag or tied cotton cloth into the water. Let it steep for a maximum of 24 hours, occasionally squeezing the bag to ensure all water-soluble nutrients are infused into the water. Continue to mix the water to provide oxygen for the aerobic bacteria to develop and multiply, resulting in millions of beneficial bacteria. The purpose of vermicompost tea is to transfer microbial biomass and soluble chemical components to be applied to plant surfaces or the soil.
It’s essential to use the vermicompost tea solution entirely and avoid storing it, as microbial activity will deplete over time. Prepare only the amount needed for immediate use and apply it within a day once the fermentation process is complete