Assessing the Impact of Vermicompost Proportions on Biochemical Attributes in Mulberry Saplings of V-1, S-36 and S-13 Varieties

Abstract

Earthworms and microbes work together to break down organic materials to create vermicompost, a microbiologically active amendment that is high in nutrients. This organic fertilizer is created when earthworms break down organic waste. It provides major advantages for the economy, agriculture, and ecology. The purpose of the experiment was to determine how the various amounts of vermicompost affected the performance of mulberry saplings. Different proportions of vermicompost (10 %, 20 %, 30 % and 40 % + red soil and sand) were used as treatments with control (1/3 compost + 1/3 sand + 1/3 red soil) in three varieties of mulberry cuttings (V-1, S-36 and S-13). The results revealed that in all three varieties of mulberry cuttings, treatments with 20 per cent, 30 per cent and 40 per cent vermicompost were statistically on par with each other compared to control with respect to Leaf moisture content, Moisture retention capacity, Carbohydrate content of leaf, Crude Fibre, Ash, Protein content and Total Chlorophyll Content   followed by 10 per cent vermicompost and the least observations are recorded in the control (1/3 compost + 1/3 sand + 1/3 red soil). The higher proportion of vermicompost in planting media improved significantly the biochemical parameters of mulberry saplings. The findings suggest that incorporating vermicompost into sericulture practices can enhance crop productivity and quality, leading to improved silk production outcomes.