The method of producing compost using earthworms is called vermin composting. Earthworms
constitute more than 80% of the invertebrate biomass. They play a significant role in maintaining the soil
productivity. Earthworms help in decomposition of organic matter and contribute 20-100 Kg N per h per
year apart from producing other mineralized nutrients and plant growth promoting substances.
Earthworms help the growth of beneficial microorganisms by providing optimum conditions for their
growth.
Vermicompost
Worms assimilate some of the microorganisms as their food. Hence, the more the microbial biomass the
more will be the worm biomass. Worms enrich the soil with oxygen, thus encouraging aerobic
microorganisms. These microorganisms perform several important functions like nitrogen fixation,
production of enzymes, antibiotics, growth hormones, etc. They also control parasitic nematodes and
enhance crop yields.
Earthworms can feed on crop residues; vegetable and fruit wastes and convert them into Vermicompost.
On an average one worm weighing about 1 g can produce about 1 g compost in a day. In an area of 1 sq.
meter, if 1000 earthworms are inoculated, 1 kg of Vermicompost can be prepared in a day. This way, within
80-90 days the complete area of 1 sq. meter will turn into compost and the population of earthworms will
increase several folds.