Fig 1.Vermiwash set up (Bendalam and Kaviti, 2020).
Tekameren Walling
Assistant Professor, Department of Botany, Sao Chang College
What is Vermiwash?
As the world grapples with the environmental fallout of chemical fertilizers, earthworm-derived solution is gaining ground among farmers and environmentalists alike: vermiwash. This eco-friendly, brown, odorless liquid extract/fertilizer is produced by passing water through layers of earthworms and organic waste—a process that not only recycles farm leftovers but also yields a potent, natural fertilizer. Vermiwash is a nutrient-rich extract, teeming with macro- and micronutrients, growth hormones, vitamins, enzymes, amino acids, and beneficial microbes. Unlike synthetic fertilizers, it acts as a mild biocide, enhancing plant health, boosting yields, and improving nutritional quality—all while being gentle on the environment. It also increases disease resistance, repels pests, and acts as a sustainable substitute for conventional fertilizers To create standardized procedures and practices for its application in various agricultural contexts, more research is required
Why Vermiwash Matters Now
The legacy of the Green Revolution, with its heavy reliance on chemical fertilizers, has led to soil degradation and environmental pollution. As the global community shifts toward sustainable agriculture, vermiwash offers a promising alternative. It not only supports food security but also reduces the ecological footprint of farming by minimizing chemical runoff and enhancing soil fertility. In Northeast agriculture, vermiwash has emerged as a promising alternative to conventional chemical fertilizers.
How is Vermiwash Made?
Producing vermiwash is surprisingly simple and accessible:
• Different materials like container (barrel or bucket),broken stones, coarse sand, garden soil, garden soil, earthworms, cattle dung, straw and water are required.
• Red earthworm species, such as Eiseniafoetida and Lumbricusrubellus, are utilized in commercial composting or worm farming because of their comparatively high tolerance to environmental fluctuations
ECO – SCIENCE research foundation method, Ismail’s method, Karunas method, Economic technique, KAU’s method, Plastic drum method (1000 L), Households device, Kales method, Fluid method, etc. are some of the ways that can be used to prepare vermiwash. Most commonly and commercially followed methods are ECO – SCIENCE research foundation method and Ismail’s method. This technique involves placing a base layer of gravel or broken pieces of bricks are placed up to height of 10-15 cm. Next, a 40–45 cm layer of coarse sand is covered with a layer of pre-decomposed organic waste, and water is used to moisten the different layers. Approximately two thousand worms are added to the container. Water was sprayed frequently for seven to ten days . After 10 days vermin wash will be produced in the bucket. Hang one pot with a bottom hole over the bucket in a way so that leachate falls drop by drop. Every day 4-5L of water is poured in the hanging pot. Another pot is kept under the stop cork and 3-4L of vermiwash is found every day.
How to Use Vermiwash
Vermiwash is diluted with water about 10% before spraying. This has been found to be effective in several plants. Studies have suggested a common ratio of 1:5, or one part vermiwash to five parts water, the optimal dilution ratio varies .This dilution has been shown to dramatically improve seed germination and plant growth, with some studies reporting up to 100% germination rates in crops like mung beans . Diluting vermiwash increases the availability of nutrients to plants, promoting better growth and yield. The main application for vermiwash is as a foliar spray. Additionally, it can be blended in certain ratios with vermicompost, soil, or organic fertilizers.
Benefits Backed by Science
Research highlights a range of advantages:
• Nutrient-Rich: Study conducted on vermiwash indicate pH 7.63, EC 9.66 mS/cm, total organic carbon 0.239%, nitrogen 0.014%, phosphorus 0.355%, and potassium 1.5% . It also contains essential nutrients such as organic carbon, sodium, potassium, iron, copper, and zinc. The extract contains heterotrophic, nitrogen-fixer bacteria, enzymes, vitamins, essential macronutrients and micronutrients and plant hormones, making it a valuable resource for enhancing soil fertility and plant growth.
• Soil Remediation: It contributes to soil remediation, improving its structure and fertility, which is crucial for sustainable agricultural practices.
• Pest and Disease Resistance: Vermiwash has been shown to reduce insect-pest infestations and enhance plant resistance to diseases, resulting in healthier crops.
• Low-Cost and Accessible: Especially valuable in developing regions, it offers an affordable alternative to chemical fertilizers.
• Supports Organic and sustainable Farming: Vermiwash is a potent input in organic farming and supports sustainable agricultural practices by minimizing reliance on chemical fertilizers, thus reducing soil and water pollution.
Challenges and the Road Ahead
While vermiwash presents numerous advantages, it is crucial to address the challenges associated with its widespread use, such as the necessity for education on its application and potential variability in nutrient content based on production methods. Training initiatives can enlighten farmers about the benefits of vermiwash, including its capacity to enhance soil health and boost crop yields without the negative impacts of chemical fertilizers .To ensure that farmers can produce vermiwash responsibly, workshops can educate the production technique, which includes using earthworms and organic waste Education can significantly contribute to reducing dependence on chemical fertilizers in favor of vermiwash (organic alternatives), promoting eco-friendly practices and enhancing overall agricultural sustainability.
A Greener Future with Vermiwash
Vermiwash stands out as a beacon of hope for sustainable agriculture. By harnessing the natural power of earthworms and organic waste, farmers can boost yields, protect the environment, and pave the way for a healthier, more resilient food system.
Vermiwash is more than just an organic fertilizer—it's a symbol of the shift towards sustainable, eco-friendly farming. As more farmers embrace this natural elixir, the future of agriculture looks greener than ever.
Reference
Bendalam, P., and Kaviti, V. L. 2020.Vermiwash. Just Agriculture, p. 4
Chattopadhyay, A. (2015). Effect of vermiwash of Eiseniafoetida produced by different methods on seed germination of green mung, Vigna radiate. International Journal of Recycling of Organic Waste in Agriculture, 4, 233-237.
Dhakal, R., Neupane, S., Sipkhan, P., Bhatta, K., Sharma, O., & Shah, R. D. (2024). Vermiwash: A Low-Cost and Eco-Friendly Liquid Fertilizer. ICIMOD Information Sheets.
Huzenko, M., & Kononenko, S. (2024). Sustainable agriculture: Impact on public health and sustainable development. Health Economics and Management Review, 5(2), 125-150.
Mukhi, S. K., Nayak, M. P., Sardar, S. S., & Bar, N. (2022). Vermiwash: A potential tool for crop production in organic agriculture. Int. J. of Plant and Soil Sci, 34, 23.
Nahar, K., Ashrafi, R., & Haque, M. A. (2024).Vermiwash: An effective nutritive blessing to crops. Bangladesh Journal of Nuclear Agriculture, 38(1), 21-40.
