Vermicompost and vermiwash: Sustainable bioinputs for soil health and crop productivity

The overuse of chemical fertilizers has led to declining soil organic carbon and the destruction of beneficial soil organisms, highlighting the urgent need for sustainable alternatives. Vermicomposting, the biological process of composting organic waste using earthworms such as Eiseniafoetida, offers a natural, eco-friendly, and cost-effective solution. This document details the methods of preparing vermicompost, including pit, heap, kacha pit, and portable vermibed techniques, and explains the key environmental parameters necessary for optimal composting. It also highlights the collection, properties, and agricultural benefits of vermicompost and vermiwash—a nutrient-rich liquid extract produced during the process. Vermicompost enhances soil fertility, increases microbial activity, improves soil structure and water retention, and boosts crop yields and resistance to pests and diseases. By recycling organic waste into high-quality organic fertilizers and biostimulants, vermicomposting supports sustainable agriculture, environmental conservation, and rural livelihoods, positioning it as an essential practice for modern organic farming.