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.

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Apr 11th, 3:30 PM

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.