Qualitative evaluation and economic assessment of Dal-lake aquatic weed vermicompost prepared in conventional vermi-bed and smart vermicomposting bin

Abstract

Abstract The study emphasized in understanding the dynamics of vermicomposting in conventional vermi-bin and smart vermicomposting bin using Dal Lake aquatic weed as substrate with turning frequency of 10 days and 20 days and 20, 40 and 60 days degradation period. In vermi-bed method, the materials were turned manually and a spiral mixer was used in smart vermicomposting bin. The results showed that pH, organic carbon and C: N ratio dwindled by 3.28%, 16.36% and 5.57% and there was an increase in EC by 22.39%, N 14.03%, P 37.78% and K 5.85% with 10 days turning frequency in vermi-bed vermicomposting system. In 20 days turning frequency, the values were 3.02%, 22.58%, 13.96%, 42.86%, 6.92%, 11.81%, respectively. When the dal lake aquatic weed was degraded in smart vermicomposting bin, it was observed that pH, organic carbon and C:N ratio shrunk by 5.63%, 14.94% and 24.88% with an increase in 11.23% N, 26% P, 10.4% K in 10 days turning frequency and 60 days degradation period. In 20 days turning interval, the values recorded were 6.23%, 14.29%, 24.56%, 10.99%, 20%, 16.77%, respectively. The cost of preparation of 1 kg of vermicompost was Rs. 20 and Rs. 13 in vermi-bed and smart vermicomposting bin. The benefit cost ratio of smart vermicomposting bin was higher (1.78) than vermi-bed process in the second year. The study can help to shift from conventional to smart vermicomposting system to automate the system, reduce the dependence on manual labour and achieve the dream of organic agriculture.