Event Title
Effects of Vermicompost on Germination of Various Vegetables
Presentation Type
Oral and/or Visual Presentation
Presenter Major(s)
Natural Resource Management
Mentor Information
C. "Griff" Griffin
Department
Biology
Location
Kirkhof Center 1142
Start Date
11-4-2012 3:30 PM
Keywords
Environment, Life Science, Physical Science, Social Science, Sustainability
Abstract
This project explores the efficiency of incorporating worm castings into the vegetable starts at Grand Valley's Sustainable Agriculture Farm. The germination rates, growth rates, and leaf number were observed over time. The original starting medium was analyzed and compared with the worm casting mix. Four vegetables (tomatoes, summer squash, green beans, and red bell peppers) were started in worm casting concentrations of 5%, 20%, and 50%. A control was made using no worm castings, only the starter soil being currently used by the SAP Farm. Observations on plant germination, growth, and health were recorded for four to eight weeks, depending on their particular start date. This study took place in a greenhouse with a constant temperature of 75 degrees Fahrenheit, and in an unheated hoop house during late winter in mid-Michigan. Positive results warrant further research.
Effects of Vermicompost on Germination of Various Vegetables
Kirkhof Center 1142
This project explores the efficiency of incorporating worm castings into the vegetable starts at Grand Valley's Sustainable Agriculture Farm. The germination rates, growth rates, and leaf number were observed over time. The original starting medium was analyzed and compared with the worm casting mix. Four vegetables (tomatoes, summer squash, green beans, and red bell peppers) were started in worm casting concentrations of 5%, 20%, and 50%. A control was made using no worm castings, only the starter soil being currently used by the SAP Farm. Observations on plant germination, growth, and health were recorded for four to eight weeks, depending on their particular start date. This study took place in a greenhouse with a constant temperature of 75 degrees Fahrenheit, and in an unheated hoop house during late winter in mid-Michigan. Positive results warrant further research.