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4. MANAGING OF VERMICOMPOSTING PROCESS

Vermicompost production method is a complex process in which many physical, chemical and biological

factors are effective. Many factors such as location, temperature, humidity, pH, composition, diversity
and quantity of microbial elements and type and quantity of earthworms affect the vermicompost
production process. The success of the vermicompost production process requires the production of

fertilizer with physical, chemical, and biological content suitable for the demands of the market. For the
production of vermicompost with these determined properties, it is an important requirement to keep all

parameters that may affect the process under control. Vermicompost production indicates the
management of five basic stages (Figure 8).

• Collection of waste materials
1

• Pre-digestion
2

• Earthworm bed preparation and composting
3

• Harvesting of vermicompost & earthworms
4

• Packing and storing of vermicompost
5

Figure 8. Basic process steps in the management of vermicompost production

Collection of waste material: The collected waste materials should be seperated from glass, plastic,

ceramics, and some animal wastes (dairy wastes, fat, meat, etc.), reduced in size, and stored in a proper
place.

Pre-digestion: Pre-digestion of organic waste should be done for at least 20-25 days by heaping the

material along with cattle dung slurry and regular watering. This process partially digests the material
and fit for earthworm consumption. Addition of higher quantities of acid-rich substances such as citrus
wastes should be avoided. Any organic wastes – cow dung, crop residues, farm wastes, vegetable market

wastes, and fruit wastes can be used as a raw material for composting. Use of wet dung should be avoided
for vermicompost production. At least 20-25 days old cow dung should be used to avoid excess heat
generation.

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