ROLE OF VERMICOMPOST ON SOIL AND PLANT HEALTH AND PROMOTING SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE

Abstract

Vermicompost has emerged as a promising organic amendment for improving soil health, enhancing crop productivity, and promoting sustainable agricultural systems. This review synthesizes and critically evaluates published literature on the role of vermicompost in modifying soil physicochemical properties, stimulating biological activity, improving plant growth and yield, and contributing to environmental sustainability.  studies published over the last two decades were systematically analyzed to assess the influence of vermicompost on soil nutrient dynamics, microbial diversity, enzyme activities, soil structure, and plant physiological responses across diverse cropping systems. The compiled evidence demonstrates that vermicompost consistently increases the availability of essential macro- and micronutrients, enhances cation exchange capacity, improves soil aggregation, reduces bulk density, and significantly increases water-holding capacity. Moreover, vermicompost application promotes soil biological activity by increasing microbial biomass, respiration rates, and key enzyme activities such as dehydrogenase and phosphatase. These improvements translate into enhanced seed germination, vegetative growth, root development, chlorophyll content, and yield across cereals, vegetables, fruits, and ornamental crops. In addition, vermicompost exhibits strong biocontrol potential by suppressing soil-borne pathogens and pests through microbial antagonism and induced systemic resistance. Beyond agronomic benefits, vermicomposting contributes to sustainable waste management, carbon sequestration, and reduction of reliance on synthetic fertilizers and pesticides. Despite its proven advantages, variability in feedstock composition, earthworm species, and application rates remains a limitation to large-scale adoption. Overall, the review highlights vermicompost as a multifunctional biofertilizer and soil conditioner with significant potential to support regenerative and climate-resilient agricultural practices, while identifying key research gaps for optimizing its effectiveness under diverse agro-ecological conditions.