Vermicompost Amendment to Field Soil for Strawberry and Garlic Production, 2008-2009

Abstract

BACKGROUND: International research in horticulture has documented growth and yield benefits of field soil applications of different types of vermicompost in a variety of cropping systems as a supplement to or a replacement for synthetic nutrient amendments. Vermicomposted dairy manure is now produced in large quantities in NY State. Use of this recycled organic matter in agriculture can help provide an economic incentive to move excess nutrients from oversaturated watersheds to areas where they are needed. On a regional scale, closing the loop with livestock manure recycling could reduce the potential soil, water and air pollution associated with high concentrations of livestock manures. Our goal was to find the most efficient and economically viable use of this recycled organic material for crop nutrient management in NY State. Here we present field trials for strawberry (certified organic and conventional) and garlic production.