Vermicompost: alternative to urea in basil seed production

Abstract

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to evaluate the effects of two vermicompost and urea on basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) variety Catamarca INTA (wide leaf) seed production, observing the evolution of the inflorescence and seed coloration.Design/methodology/approachTreatments consisted of 50 per cent vermicompost from rumen content: 50 per cent soil (RCV); 50 per cent vermicompost from rabbit manure: 50 per cent soil (RMV); urea 100 kg/ha and soil as control. On three dates the authors determined the total number of inflorescences, harvested inflorescences and number of whorls with black seeds. In the final cycle the authors determined the weight of 1,000 seeds and the number of harvested seeds.FindingsIn general, vermicompost produced better results (p<0,0001): the total number inflorescences and whorls with black seeds and the number of seeds produced were significantly higher in vermicompost compared with those under the urea and control treatments. There were no significant differences in the weight of 1,000 seeds.Social implicationsThe use of chemical fertilizers causes environmental pollution, produces negative effects on human health and contributes to the depletion of non‐renewable natural resources.Originality/valueThese renewable amendments (vermicompost) constitute a sustainable alternative to the use of urea for inflorescence production and mature basil seed production.