Evaluating basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) cultivation using different doses of vermicompost: chemical and biochemical assessment of the soil
Keywords:
Soil biochemistry, Sewage sludge, Biosolids reuseAbstract
Concerns about the environmental impact of conventional agricultural inputs have led to the search for sustainable alternatives, such as using organic residues to improve soil quality. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of vermicompost, made from sewage sludge and cattle manure (at different concentrations), on soil's chemical and biochemical properties in greenhouse basil (Ocimum basilicum) cultivation. An experimental study was conducted with five treatments, comparing soils treated with vermicompost, conventional fertilizers, and combinations of both, with a control soil without additives. The treatments were applied in a controlled environment, followed by an analysis of electrical conductivity, organic matter content, total nitrogen, enzyme activity, and plant productivity. The results showed that soils treated with vermicompost, especially those with higher doses, showed significantly improvements in electrical conductivity, organic matter content, and nutrient availability. Additionally, an increase in enzyme activity and greater plant productivity were observed in the first harvest. These findings suggest that vermicompost not only enriches the soil, but also helps promote healthier plant growth. In this context, vermicompost, made from sewage sludge and cattle manure is an effective organic amendment to improve soil quality and increase the productivity of crops like basil, representing a viable and ecological strategy for sustainable agriculture.
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