Enhancement in the productivity of ladies finger (Abelmoschus esculentus) with concomitant pest control by the vermicompost of the weed salvinia (Salvinia molesta, Mitchell)

Purpose In a novel attempt, vermicompost derived from an intransigent and noxious weed salvinia was assessed for its fertilizer value and pest repellent properties. Methods In outdoor experiments which simulated the way vegetables are cultivated by farmers, ladies finger (Abelmoschus esculentus) seeds were germinated and grown in soil supplemented with salvinia vermicompost at four levels: 0 (V0), 2.5 (V1), 3.75 (V2) and 5 (V3) t/ha. Besides assessing germination success and subsequent growth, yield, and biochemical content of the plants, the impact of pest attacks on them was also studied. Results Salvinia vermicompost significantly enhanced germination success, growth, and yield of the plants. Maximum growth in terms of shoot length (96.2 cm), root length (48.2 cm), shoot and root dry weight (23.31, 7.96 g), stem diameter (14.04 mm), and number of leaves and branches (26.8, 4.8) was recorded in V4 (5t/ha). Likewise, the mineral and biochemical content in vermicompost- treated plants was significantly higher than in the controls. The vermicompost also induced resistance in plants against pests and disease. Compared to the controls, vermicompost had reduced the fruit borer infection by 65, 78 and 82% in V1, V2 and V3, respectively. Conclusion The toxicity of salvinia is largely eliminated when it is vermicomposted, and the product acquires the qualities of a good organic fertilizer. The present work can potentially lead to the development of an inexpensive, sustainable and eco-friendly method of utilizing billions of tons of phytomass that is generated annually by salvinia, and which presently goes to waste.