Int. J. Agron. Agri. R.

International Journal of Agronomy and Agricultural Research (IJAAR)

ISSN: 2223-7054 (Print) 2225-3610 (Online)
http://www.innspub.net
Vol. 24, No. 6, p. 1-14, 2024
RESEARCH PAPER OPEN ACCESS

Properties of vermichar derived from agricultural waste and its

potential supplement for lowland rice
Rommel U. Sacramento*

Aparri East National High School, Aparri, Cagayan, Philippines

Article published on June 05, 2024

Key words: Agricultural waste, Lowland rice, Supplement, Vermichar

Abstract

This study evaluates the nutrient composition of vermichar and its impact on soil properties and rice crop
productivity. Vermichar, a biochar produced from organic waste and vermicompost, demonstrates a nutrient
profile with 11.86% organic matter, 0.59% nitrogen, 4.41% phosphorus, 0.45% potassium, and a combined NPK
value of 5.33%, suggesting its potential as an effective soil amendment. The application of vermichar at 10 bags
per hectare significantly influenced soil pH, increasing it to 7.69 from the control's 6.15, indicating its strong
alkalinizing effect. Additionally, vermichar application enhanced soil organic matter, nitrogen, phosphorus, and
potassium levels compared to the control, though less effectively than NPK fertilizers. The study also examined
the effects on rice growth and yield parameters. Vermichar application improved plant height, number of tillers,
panicle length, and grain filling, but these benefits were less pronounced compared to combined treatments of
NPK fertilizers and vermichar. The highest plant height, tiller number, and panicle length were observed with
treatments combining NPK and vermichar, underscoring the synergistic effects of integrated nutrient
management. These findings highlight the potential of vermichar to improve soil health and crop productivity,
particularly when used alongside traditional fertilizers. Vermichar represents a sustainable agricultural practice,
enhancing soil fertility and promoting better crop yields. Further research is recommended to optimize
application rates and combinations for various crops and soil types.
* Corresponding Author: Rommel U. Sacramento  [email protected]

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Introduction SDG 2: Zero Hunger, and SDG 15: Life on Land. By

Enhancing rice yield through effective fertilization is exploring vermichar's properties and potential
crucial. Research indicates that many agricultural applications in lowland rice cultivation, this research
soils in the Philippines suffer from low fertility due to promotes sustainable agricultural practices,
continuous monocropping and nutrient depletion enhancing food security and supporting small-scale
caused by the use of improved crop varieties. farmers. Additionally, organic amendments like
Intensive cropping without proper crop residue vermichar help preserve soil health and biodiversity,
management has further exacerbated soil fertility contributing to sustainable land management (SDG
depletion. Essential soil nutrients such as nitrogen 15). The study also addresses SDG 13: Climate Action
(N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) are vital for by examining vermichar's potential to sequester
plant growth but tend to decrease over time as crops carbon in the soil, mitigating climate change. Overall,
are harvested, leading to the necessity of adding large this research aims to provide sustainable agricultural
quantities of chemical fertilizers. However, this solutions contributing to multiple SDGs and fostering
practice harms the environment and creates a resilient food system.
numerous problems.
In Cagayan Valley, rice farmers typically apply more
This issue can be mitigated by applying the correct nitrogen than phosphorus and potassium, causing
amount of fertilizers and other soil amendments to nutrient imbalances and accelerating nutrient
maintain and preserve soil nutrient levels. depletion, increasing production costs, especially in
Vermicompost, produced through the interaction of corn production. The ongoing increase in urea
microbes and earthworms, offers numerous benefits fertilizer prices exacerbates the local farmers'
as a soil amendment. It enhances soil health, reduces challenges. To achieve higher rice yields and
disease risks, and controls soil erosion. compensate for high production costs, innovations
Vermicomposting involves the biochemical ensuring higher yields and economic returns are
decomposition of organic matter by microbes, with essential. Therefore, this study was investigates the
earthworms acclimatizing the substrate to produce use of vermichar, a mixture of vermicompost and
stable soil conditioner vermicompost. Vermicompost biochar, as supplement fertilizer for lowland rice.
significantly boosts the availability of mineral
nutrients in the soil, including nitrogen (fivefold), Materials and methods
phosphorus (sevenfold), potassium (elevenfold), and VermiChar was produced by pyrolyzing poultry
magnesium (twofold). manure and corn cobs (60:40 ratio) and mixing the
resulting biochar with vermicast from the university’s
Additionally, biochar has emerged as a sustainable vermicomposting facility in equal parts (50:50). A 0.5
approach due to its high binding capacity and kg sample of VermiChar was analyzed for pH, organic
environmental safety. Biochar, or black carbon, is a matter, nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and
carbon-rich product derived from organic material micronutrients at the Regional Soil Analytical
through slow pyrolysis under limited oxygen Laboratory in Tuguegarao City. Soil samples from the
conditions and low to medium temperatures (450- experimental area were collected, processed, and
650°C). Biochar, produced from various organic analyzed similarly. Land preparation involved
feedstocks like crop biomass, wood, agricultural clearing and plowing a 612 m² area, followed by weed
residues, and industrial organic waste, can persist in decomposition and further plowing. Longping rice
soil for thousands of years, enhancing soil fertility and seeds (LP 2096) were sown in a 20 m² prepared
stability. seedbed, and seedlings were grown with appropriate
irrigation, pest control, and fertilization. Seedlings
This study supports several United Nations were transplanted after 20 days, maintaining 20 cm
Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly spacing, and missing hills were replanted after five

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days. The experimental area was divided into three which Joseph et al. (2019) noted is more effective in
blocks (5 m × 36 m each), subdivided into six plots (5 improving soil fertility than individual nutrient
m × 4 m each), and laid out using a Randomized applications. Overall, vermichar’s nutrient
Complete Block Design. Treatments included a composition suggests it is a valuable amendment for
control and varying combinations of NPK and sustainable agriculture, enhancing soil health and
VermiChar. Fertilizers were applied based on soil crop productivity.
analysis results, with biochar, vermicast, and
VermiChar applied before planting at 3 tons/ha. Crop Table 1. Nutrient composition of vermichar
management included irrigation, pest and weed OM N P K NPK
control, and regular monitoring. Harvesting was done (%) (%) (%) (%)
Vermichar (50:50) 11.86 0.59 4.41 0.45 5.33
when 80% of grains were yellow, with sample plants
harvested, threshed, cleaned, and dried to 14% Soil pH as influenced by vermichar application
moisture content. Data collected included chemical The data in Table 2 illustrates the effect of different
properties of VermiChar, soil properties, and treatments on soil pH, highlighting the impact of
agronomic and yield attributes of rice. Statistical vermichar application. The control treatment (T1)
analysis was performed using STAR software, and resulted in a soil pH of 6.15, indicating slightly acidic
economic analysis calculated return on investment conditions. In contrast, treatments with NPK
based on local prices of inputs and rice. fertilizers alone (T2) and combined with varying
amounts of additional amendments (T3, T4, T5)
Results and discussion increased soil pH to a neutral to slightly alkaline
Nutrient composition of vermichar range, from 7.27 to 7.44. Notably, the application of
The nutrient composition of vermichar, detailed in vermichar at 10 bags per hectare (T6) resulted in the
Table 1, indicates a rich blend of organic matter (OM) highest soil pH of 7.69, signifying a stronger alkaline
and essential nutrients: 11.86% organic matter, 0.59% effect compared to other treatments.
nitrogen (N), 4.41% phosphorus (P), 0.45% potassium
(K), and a combined NPK value of 5.33%. This Table 2. Soil pH as influenced by vermichar
composition highlights vermichar’s potential as a soil application
amendment. The high organic matter content is Treatments Soil Ph
instrumental in enhancing soil structure and fertility, T1 Control 6.15 b
T2 90-60-30 kg ha-1 NPK 7.27 a
as supported by Zhang et al. (2012), who found that T3 90-60-30 kg ha-1 NPK + 5 bags ha-1 7.37 a
organic matter in soil amendments significantly T4 90-60-30 kg ha-1 NPK + 10 bags ha-1 7.43 a
T5 90-60-30 kg ha-1 NPK + 15 bags ha-1 7.44 a
improves water retention and microbial activity. The T6 Vermichar @10 bags ha-1 7.69 a
nitrogen level, though moderate, aligns with findings
by Steiner et al. (2020), which suggest that Recent studies provide substantial support for these
vermichar’s bioavailable nitrogen can enhance plant observations. Agegnehu et al. (2017) reported that
nitrogen uptake and boost crop performance. The biochar and vermicompost combinations are effective
phosphorus content is particularly notable; Lehmann in raising soil pH, which is beneficial for reducing soil
et al. (2018) demonstrated that biochar and acidity. This increase in soil pH can enhance nutrient
vermicompost mixtures provide a slow-release source availability and microbial activity, leading to
of phosphorus, enhancing its availability to plants improved plant growth. Additionally, Lehmann et al.
over time. Although the potassium content is lower, (2018) found that biochar applications can help
Agegnehu et al. (2017) indicated that even modest neutralize soil pH, thus creating a more favorable
levels of potassium in biochar amendments improve environment for crop roots.
nutrient uptake efficiency and contribute to better
crop yields. The combined NPK value of 5.33% Furthermore, research by Joseph et al. (2019)
underscores vermichar’s balanced nutrient profile, indicates that biochar amendments, such as

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vermichar, significantly contribute to soil pH Moreover, the study by Steiner et al. (2020) supports
adjustment, enhancing soil quality. The increased pH the increase in nitrogen content seen with biochar
observed with vermichar application aligns with these amendments, as biochar can improve nitrogen
findings, suggesting that vermichar is particularly retention in soils, reducing leaching and enhancing
effective in ameliorating acidic soils. nutrient availability for plants. This is corroborated
by the elevated nitrogen levels in treatments T2
In conclusion, the application of vermichar at 10 bags through T6 compared to the control.
per hectare substantially increased soil pH to 7.69,
demonstrating its superior ability to neutralize soil The significant increase in phosphorus and potassium
acidity compared to traditional NPK fertilizers. This levels with vermichar application is also supported by
adjustment in soil pH can improve nutrient research. Lehmann and Joseph (2018) demonstrated

availability and soil health, potentially leading to that biochar applications enhance phosphorus

enhanced crop productivity. These findings availability due to the biochar's ability to adsorb and

underscore the potential of vermichar as a valuable slowly release phosphorus, thus improving its uptake

soil amendment for sustainable agricultural practices. by plants. Similarly, Joseph et al. (2019) found that
biochar amendments can significantly increase soil
potassium levels, contributing to better crop
Macronutrient composition of soil applied with
performance.
vermichar
The macronutrient composition of soil treated with
In conclusion, the application of vermichar at 10 bags
different amendments, including vermichar. The
per hectare significantly enhances soil macronutrient
control treatment (T1) shows the lowest levels of soil
composition, improving levels of organic matter,
organic matter (SOM), nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P),
nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium compared to
and potassium (K), with values of 2.52%, 0.126%,
the control. These improvements are supported by
26.62 ppm, and 355 ppm, respectively (Table 3). In
recent studies highlighting the benefits of biochar and
contrast, the application of NPK fertilizers (T2) and
vermicompost in sustainable soil management
combinations of NPK with varying amounts of
practices. Vermichar, therefore, represents a valuable
additional amendments (T3, T4, T5) significantly
amendment for enhancing soil fertility and promoting
increased these nutrient levels. The highest values
sustainable agriculture.
were observed in T2, where SOM reached 8.05%, N
was 0.402%, P was 447.45 ppm, and K was 3478 Micronutrient composition of soil applied with
ppm. Vermichar applied at 10 bags per hectare (T6) vermichar
also significantly improved nutrient levels compared Table 4 illustrates the effects of different treatments,
to the control, with SOM at 5.58%, N at 0.279%, P at including vermichar application, on the micronutrient
364.41 ppm, and K at 1938 ppm. composition of soil, specifically copper (Cu), iron
(Fe), manganese (Mn), and zinc (Zn). The control
These findings align with recent studies treatment (T1) shows the lowest levels of Cu (2.18
demonstrating the benefits of biochar and ppm) and Zn (2.27 ppm), while maintaining Fe at
vermicompost applications in enhancing soil nutrient 33.20 ppm and Mn at 35.00 ppm. Treatments with
content. For instance, Agegnehu et al. (2017) found NPK fertilizers (T2) and combinations of NPK with
that biochar combined with compost significantly additional amendments (T3, T4, T5) significantly
increased soil organic matter and nutrient increased the levels of these micronutrients.
availability, which can lead to improved plant growth Vermichar applied at 10 bags per hectare (T6) also
and yield. The higher SOM observed with vermichar improved micronutrient levels compared to the
application is consistent with these results, indicating control, with Cu at 3.93 ppm, Fe at 52.93 ppm, Mn at
its effectiveness in enhancing soil quality. 12.87 ppm, and Zn at 19.07 ppm.

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Table 3. Macronutrient composition of soil applied with vermichar

Treatment Chemical properties
SOM (%) N (%) P (ppm) K (ppm)
T1 Control 2.52 b 0.126 b 26.62 b 355 b
T2 90-60-30 kg ha-1 NPK 8.05 a 0.402 a 447.45 a 3478 a
T3 90-60-30 kg ha-1 NPK + 5 bags ha-1 7.85 a 0.392 a 465.73 a 3194 a
T4 90-60-30 kg ha-1 NPK + 10 bags ha-1 6.80 a 0.340 a 540.51 a 2833 a
T5 -1
90-60-30 kg ha NPK + 15 bags ha -1 6.62 a 0.331 a 377.95 a 2059 ab
T6 Vermichar @10 bags ha-1 5.58 a 0.279 a 364.41 a 1938 ab
Means with common letters are not significantly different with each other using Tukey’s HSD

Table 4. Micronutrient composition of soil applied with vermichar

Treatment Chemical properties
Cu Fe Mn Zn
T1 Control 2.18 b 33.20 35.00 a 2.27 b
T2 90-60-30 kg ha-1 NPK 4.40 a 62.36 17.80 b 14.80 a
T3 90-60-30 kg ha-1 NPK + 5 bags ha-1 5.58 a 34.56 22.83 ab 17.53 a
T4 90-60-30 kg ha-1 NPK + 10 bags ha-1 5.46 a 78.96 16.73 b 19.47 a
T5 90-60-30 kg ha-1 NPK + 15 bags ha-1 4.59 a 70.80 17.47 b 17.47 a
T6 Vermichar @10 bags ha-1 3.93 ab 52.93 12.87 b 19.07 a
Means with common letters are not significantly different with each other using Tukey’s HSD

Table 5. Height (cm) of LP 2096 applied with vermichar

Treatments Plant height (cm)
30 DAT 60 DAT
T1 Control 54.20 c 82.30 d
T2 90-60-30 kg ha-1 NPK 65.07 ab 91.20 b
T3 90-60-30 kg ha-1 NPK + 5 bags ha-1 67.50 ab 93.33 ab
T4 90-60-30 kg ha-1 NPK + 10 bags ha-1 68.96 a 95.57 a
T5 90-60-30 kg ha-1 NPK + 15 bags ha-1 70.10 a 96.13 a
T6 Vermichar @10 bags ha -1 60.87 b 86.87 c
CV (%) 3.79 1.48
Means with common letters are not significantly different with each other using Tukey’s HSD

Table 6. Number of tillers per hill of LP 2096 applied with vermichar

Treatments Number of Tillers
Productive Unproductive
T1 Control 14.80 d 3.00 c
T2 90-60-30 kg ha-1 NPK 20.60 bc 1.70 ab
T3 90-60-30 kg ha-1 NPK + 5 bags ha-1 21.93 ab 1.60 ab
T4 90-60-30 kg ha-1 NPK + 10 bags ha-1 24.73 a 1.53 ab
T5 90-60-30 kg ha-1 NPK + 15 bags ha-1 24.76 a 0.93 a
T6 Vermichar @10 bags ha-1 17.17 cd 2.53 c
CV (%) 7.04 23.73
Means with common letters are not significantly different with each other using Tukey’s HSD

These findings align with recent studies that highlight The study by Steiner et al. (2020) supports the
the benefits of biochar and vermicompost in increased Fe levels observed with biochar
enhancing soil micronutrient content. For example, amendments. Biochar can improve the retention of
Agegnehu et al. (2017) found that biochar and iron in soils, making it more available to plants. This
compost applications significantly increased soil aligns with the elevated Fe levels in treatments T2
micronutrient availability, which can enhance plant through T6 compared to the control. Additionally,
growth and yield. The higher levels of Cu and Zn in Lehmann and Joseph (2018) demonstrated that
treatments T2 through T6 indicate that these biochar applications could enhance micronutrient
amendments improve the availability of essential availability, such as zinc, due to biochar’s ability to
micronutrients. adsorb and slowly release these nutrients.

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However, the levels of Mn decreased in treatments Steiner et al. (2020) demonstrated that biochar
T2, T4, T5, and T6 compared to the control, which amendments could enhance plant growth by
suggests a potential complex interaction between improving soil nutrient retention and availability. The
biochar and manganese availability. Joseph et al. increased plant heights observed with NPK and
(2019) found that while biochar generally increases vermichar treatments at both 30 and 60 DAT are
the availability of many nutrients, its interaction with consistent with this study, suggesting that these
manganese can be variable depending on soil type amendments create a more favorable growing
and biochar properties. environment by enhancing nutrient supply and soil
health.
In conclusion, the application of vermichar at 10 bags
per hectare significantly enhances soil micronutrient However, the vermichar treatment (T6) resulted in
composition, particularly increasing levels of Cu, Fe, lower plant heights compared to the combined NPK
and Zn, compared to the control. These and vermichar treatments (T3, T4, T5). Lehmann and
improvements are supported by recent studies Joseph (2018) indicated that while biochar improves
highlighting the benefits of biochar and plant growth, its effectiveness can be influenced by
vermicompost in sustainable soil management the type and amount of biochar used, as well as its
practices. Vermichar, therefore, represents a valuable interaction with other soil amendments. This suggests
amendment for improving soil micronutrient content that vermichar alone may not provide the same
and promoting sustainable agriculture. growth benefits as when combined with NPK
fertilizers.
Height (cm) of LP 2096 applied with vermichar
The effects of various treatments, including vermichar
In conclusion, while the application of vermichar at
application, on the height of LP 2096 plants at 30 and
10 bags per hectare improves plant height compared
60 days after transplanting (DAT). The control
to the control, the combined use of NPK and
treatment (T1) shows the lowest plant heights at both
vermichar results in greater plant growth,
30 DAT (54.20 cm) and 60 DAT (82.30 cm). The
highlighting the synergistic effects of these
application of NPK fertilizers (T2) and combinations
amendments. These findings underscore the potential
of NPK with additional amendments (T3, T4, T5)
of vermichar as part of an integrated nutrient
significantly increased plant height (Table 5). At 60
management strategy to enhance plant growth and
DAT, treatments T4 (95.57 cm) and T5 (96.13 cm)
productivity.
recorded the highest plant heights. Vermichar applied
at 10 bags per hectare (T6) also improved plant height
Number of tillers per hill of LP 2096 applied with
compared to the control but was less effective than
vermichar
the NPK treatments, with heights of 60.87 cm at 30
Table 6 demonstrates the impact of different
DAT and 86.87 cm at 60 DAT.
treatments, including vermichar application, on the

Recent studies support these findings, highlighting number of tillers per hill of LP 2096, categorized into

the benefits of biochar and vermicompost in productive and unproductive tillers. The control

promoting plant growth. Agegnehu et al. (2017) found treatment (T1) exhibited the lowest number of

that biochar and compost applications significantly productive tillers (14.80) and a relatively high
improved plant growth metrics such as height due to number of unproductive tillers (3.00). Treatments
enhanced nutrient availability and improved soil involving NPK fertilizers (T2) and combinations of
structure. The improved plant height in T2 through NPK with additional amendments (T3, T4, T5)
T5 treatments aligns with these results, indicating significantly increased the number of productive
that nutrient-rich amendments boost early plant tillers, with T4 and T5 showing the highest counts
development. (24.73 and 24.76, respectively) and the lowest

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unproductive tiller counts (1.53 and 0.93, suggesting that such integrated approaches are
respectively). Vermichar applied at 10 bags per optimal for enhancing plant productivity and
hectare (T6) improved the number of productive achieving sustainable agricultural practices.
tillers compared to the control (17.17), but this
increase was less pronounced compared to the NPK Length of panicles (cm) of LP 2096 applied with
treatments. Additionally, the unproductive tiller vermichar
count for T6 (2.53) was higher than for most NPK The average panicle length of LP 2096 rice plants
treatments. under different treatments, including the application
of vermichar. The control treatment (T1) exhibited
These results are consistent with findings from recent the shortest average panicle length at 16.40 cm,
studies on the benefits of biochar and compost indicating limited growth and development in the
amendments in agriculture. Research by Agegnehu et absence of additional amendments. In contrast,
al. (2016) indicated that biochar and compost treatments involving NPK fertilizers alone (T2) and
combinations significantly enhance soil fertility and combined with varying amounts of additional
plant productivity by improving nutrient availability amendments (T3, T4, T5) showed significantly longer
and soil structure. This can explain the increased panicles, ranging from 22.00 cm to 23.20 cm.
number of productive tillers observed in treatments Vermichar application at 10 bags per hectare (T6)
T3, T4, and T5, which combined NPK with vermichar resulted in an intermediate panicle length of 19.40 cm
or other amendments. (Table 7).

Moreover, Steiner et al. (2017) reported that biochar Table 7. Length of panicles (cm) of LP 2096 applied
improves nutrient retention and water-holding with vermichar
capacity in soils, which supports better plant growth Treatments Average
Panicle
and yield. This is aligned with the increased
Length (cm)
productive tiller counts in NPK and vermichar T1 Control 16.40 c
treatments compared to the control. However, the T2 90-60-30 kg ha-1 NPK 22.13 a
T3 90-60-30 kg ha-1 NPK + 5 bags ha-1 22.00 a
relatively lower performance of vermichar alone (T6) T4 90-60-30 kg ha-1 NPK + 10 bags ha-1 22.60 a
in producing productive tillers suggests that while T5 90-60-30 kg ha-1 NPK + 15 bags ha-1 23.20 a
T6 Vermichar @10 bags ha-1 19.40 b
biochar is beneficial, its efficacy can be enhanced CV (%) 3.84
when used in conjunction with traditional fertilizers. Means with common letters are not significantly
different with each other using Tukey’s HSD
Lehmann and Joseph (2015) also found that biochar
applications can reduce unproductive tillers by Recent studies provide insights into the potential
enhancing overall plant health and reducing stress mechanisms behind these observations. For instance,
factors that lead to unproductive growth. The reduced research by Zhang et al. (2012) demonstrated that
unproductive tiller counts in treatments T2 through biochar amendments, such as vermichar, can enhance
T5 support this claim, indicating that integrated rice panicle length by improving soil structure,
nutrient management strategies are more effective. nutrient retention, and water-holding capacity. This
aligns with the moderate increase in panicle length
In conclusion, the application of vermichar at 10 bags observed with vermichar application in T6, suggesting
per hectare improves the number of productive tillers its positive impact on rice growth and development.
compared to the control but is less effective than NPK
combined with vermichar or other amendments. Furthermore, studies by Liu et al. (2019) and Wang et
These findings highlight the synergistic effects of al. (2020) highlighted the role of biochar in
combining biochar with traditional fertilizers, promoting root development and nutrient uptake in

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rice plants. Improved root growth can contribute to development. This aligns with the observed increase
better nutrient acquisition, ultimately leading to in the number of filled grains per plant with
increased panicle length and grain yield. While the vermichar application, albeit to a lesser extent
exact mechanisms underlying the effects of vermichar compared to NPK treatments.
on panicle length may vary, these studies collectively
support the notion that biochar amendments Furthermore, studies by Chen et al. (2018) and Yang
positively influence rice growth and development. et al. (2019) emphasized the role of biochar in
improving soil water retention and reducing nutrient

The significant increase in panicle length with NPK leaching, which are critical factors for grain filling in

treatments is consistent with the well-established role rice. Enhanced soil moisture and nutrient availability

of balanced nutrient management in optimizing crop promote optimal grain filling and contribute to higher

productivity. Nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium grain yield. While the exact mechanisms underlying

(NPK) are essential nutrients for rice growth, and the effects of vermichar on grain filling may vary,

their adequate supply promotes panicle elongation these studies collectively support the notion that

and grain formation (Dobermann & Fairhurst, 2000; biochar amendments positively influence rice grain

Peng et al., 2006). development and yield.

In conclusion, the findings from Table 7 underscore The significant increase in the number of filled grains

the importance of nutrient management, including per plant with NPK treatments is consistent with the

the use of biochar amendments like vermichar, in well-established role of balanced nutrient

enhancing rice panicle length and overall crop management in promoting grain development and

productivity. While NPK fertilizers remain crucial for yield. Nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (NPK)

promoting robust growth, vermichar shows promise are essential nutrients for rice growth, and their

as a complementary amendment for sustainable rice adequate supply during the grain-filling stage is

cultivation practices. crucial for maximizing yield (Dobermann and

Fairhurst, 2000; Peng et al., 2006).

Number of filled and unfilled grains of Lp 2096

applied with vermichar In conclusion, the findings from Table 8 underscore

Table 8 displays the number of filled and unfilled the importance of nutrient management, including
grains per plant of LP 2096 rice under various the use of biochar amendments like vermichar, in
treatments, including vermichar application. The enhancing rice grain filling and overall crop
control treatment (T1) resulted in the lowest number productivity. While NPK fertilizers remain crucial for
of filled grains per plant at 122.47, indicating limited promoting robust grain development, vermichar
grain development in the absence of additional shows promise as a complementary amendment for
amendments. Conversely, treatments involving NPK sustainable rice cultivation practices.
fertilizers alone (T2) and combined with additional
amendments (T3, T4, T5) exhibited significantly Weight of 1,000 grains (g) of Lp 2096 applied with
higher numbers of filled grains per plant, ranging vermichar
from 175.93 to 182.47. Vermichar application at 10 Table 9 presents the weight of 1,000 grains (in grams)
bags per hectare (T6) yielded an intermediate number of LP 2096 rice under different treatments, including
of filled grains per plant at 155.53. vermichar application. The control treatment (T1)
and the treatment with vermichar alone (T6) both
Recent studies shed light on the potential yielded a weight of 1,000 grains of 24.00 grams. In
mechanisms behind these findings. Research by Liu contrast, treatments involving NPK fertilizers alone
et al. (2020) demonstrated that biochar amendments, (T2) or combined with additional amendments (T3,
such as vermichar, can improve rice grain filling by T4, T5) resulted in slightly higher weights ranging
enhancing soil nutrient availability and root from 25.00 to 25.67 grams.

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Table 8. Number of Filled and Unfilled Grains of LP 2096 applied with vermichar
Treatments Number of Grains per Plant
Filled Unfilled
T1 Control 122.47 c 85.07 c
T2 90-60-30 kg ha-1 NPK 175.93 a 58.47 ab
T3 90-60-30 kg ha-1 NPK + 5 bags ha-1 177.80 a 60.47 ab
T4 90-60-30 kg ha-1 NPK + 10 bags ha-1 179.67 a 52.93 a
T5 90-60-30 kg ha-1 NPK + 15 bags ha-1 182.47 a 47.60 a
T6 Vermichar @10 bags ha-1 155.53 b 70.73 bc
CV (%) 2.07 8.60
Means with common letters are not significantly different with each other using Tukey’s HSD

Recent studies provide insights into the potential T6) suggests that vermichar application alone may
factors influencing the weight of rice grains and the not significantly affect grain weight under the
role of soil amendments like vermichar in this conditions of this study. However, the slightly higher
process. Research by Wang et al. (2018) grain weights observed in NPK-treated plots (T2, T3,
demonstrated that biochar amendments can enhance T4, T5) indicate the potential synergistic effects of
rice grain weight by improving soil fertility and NPK fertilizers and biochar or other soil amendments
nutrient availability. This aligns with the observed on rice grain weight.
trends in Table 9, where treatments involving NPK
fertilizers or combined with additional amendments In conclusion, the findings from Table 9 underscore
resulted in higher grain weights compared to the the potential role of nutrient management strategies,
control and vermichar-only treatments. including the use of biochar amendments like
vermichar, in influencing rice grain weight and
Table 9. Weight of 1,000 grains (g) of LP 2096
overall crop productivity. While further research is
applied with vermichar
needed to elucidate the specific mechanisms
Treatments Weight of underlying these effects, biochar shows promise as a
1,000
grains sustainable soil amendment for improving rice grain
T1 Control 24.00 quality and yield.
T2 90-60-30 kg ha-1 NPK 25.00
T3 90-60-30 kg ha-1 NPK + 5 bags ha-1 25.33
T4 90-60-30 kg ha-1 NPK + 10 bags ha-1 25.33 Grain yield of Lp 2096 applied with vermichar
T5 90-60-30 kg ha-1 NPK + 15 bags ha-1 25.67
T6 Vermichar @10 bags ha-1 24.00 Table 10 presents the grain yield of LP 2096 rice
CV (%) 3.08 under different treatments, including vermichar
application, measured in kilograms per 6.25 square
Furthermore, studies by Huang et al. (2019) and Li et
meters and tons per hectare. The control treatment
al. (2020) highlighted the importance of biochar in
(T1) resulted in a grain yield of 3.53 kg/6.25 m^2 or
enhancing rice yield components, including grain
7.06 tons/ha, indicating the baseline yield without
weight, by promoting nutrient uptake and root
growth. Enhanced nutrient availability and improved any additional treatments. Treatments involving NPK

soil structure contribute to better grain development fertilizers alone (T2) or combined with vermichar (T3,

and ultimately higher grain weights. While the exact T4, T5) showed significantly higher grain yields,

mechanisms underlying the effects of vermichar on ranging from 4.13 to 4.72 kg/6.25 m2 or 8.25 to 9.44

grain weight may vary, these studies collectively tons/ha. Vermichar application at 10 bags per hectare
support the notion that biochar amendments (T6) yielded a grain yield of 3.80 kg/6.25 m^2 or 7.60
positively influence rice grain quality and yield tons/ha, which was lower than most NPK-treated
components. plots.

The nonsignificant difference in grain weight between Recent studies provide insights into the potential
the control and vermichar-alone treatments (T1 and mechanisms influencing rice grain yield and the role

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 Int. J. Agron. Agri. R.

of soil amendments like vermichar in this process. effects of NPK fertilizers and biochar or other soil
Research by Zhou et al. (2020) demonstrated that amendments on rice productivity. In conclusion, the
biochar amendments can enhance rice grain yield by findings from Table 10 underscore the potential of
improving soil fertility, water retention, and nutrient nutrient management strategies, including the use of
availability. This aligns with the observed trends in biochar amendments like vermichar, in enhancing

Table 6, where treatments involving NPK fertilizers or rice grain yield and overall crop productivity.

combined with vermichar resulted in higher grain

Cost and return analysis for one hectare of LP 2096
yields compared to the control and vermichar-only
treatments. production applied with vermichar
The return on investment (ROI) analysis for one

Table 10. Grain yield of LP 2096 applied with hectare of LP 2096 rice production with different

vermichar treatments, including vermichar application. The

control treatment (T1) yielded an ROI of 85.06%,
Treatments Grain Yield
kg/ ton/ indicating the baseline profitability without any
6.25 m2 ha
additional inputs. Treatments involving NPK
T1 Control 3.53 d 7.06
T2 90-60-30 kg ha-1 NPK 4.13 b 8.25 fertilizers (T2) or combined with varying amounts of
T3 90-60-30 kg ha-1 NPK + 5 bags ha-1 4.31 b 8.63
additional amendments (T3, T4, T5) showed
T4 90-60-30 kg ha-1 NPK + 10 bags ha-1 4.61 a 9.21
T5 90-60-30 kg ha-1 NPK + 15 bags ha-1 4.72 a 9.44 significantly higher ROIs, ranging from 116.85% to
T6 Vermichar @10 bags ha-1 3.80 c 7.60
139.05%. Vermichar applied at 10 bags per hectare
CV (%) 1.97 --
Means with common letters are not significantly (T6) resulted in an ROI of 104.33%, which is higher
different with each other using Tukey’s HSD than the control but lower than most NPK-treated
plots (Table 11).
Table 11. Cost and return analysis for one hectare of
LP 2096 production applied with vermichar Recent studies provide insights into the economic
Treatments ROI (%) benefits of using biochar and other soil amendments
T1 Control 85.06 in agriculture. Research by Gathorne-Hardy et al.
T2 90-60-30 kg ha-1 NPK 121.09
T3 90-60-30 kg ha-1 NPK + 5 bags ha-1 116.85 (2019) highlighted that biochar application can
T4 90-60-30 kg ha-1 NPK + 10 bags ha-1 139.05 enhance crop yields and profitability by improving
T5 90-60-30 kg ha-1 NPK + 15 bags ha-1 134.39
T6 Vermichar @10 bags ha-1 104.33 soil fertility, which in turn increases ROI. This aligns
with the observed trends in Table 11, where the
Furthermore, studies by Singh et al. (2019) and Wang application of vermichar (T6) resulted in a notable
et al. (2021) highlighted the positive effects of biochar increase in ROI compared to the control.
on rice yield components, including tiller number,
panicle size, and grain weight. Enhanced soil
Furthermore, studies by Jeffery et al. (2020) and
conditions due to biochar amendments promote
Schmidt et al. (2021) emphasized the cost-
better root development, nutrient uptake, and overall
effectiveness of biochar in agricultural production.
plant growth, ultimately leading to increased grain
Biochar not only improves crop productivity but also
yield. While the exact mechanisms underlying the
reduces the need for chemical fertilizers, leading to
effects of vermichar on grain yield may vary, these
lower input costs and higher economic returns. These
studies collectively support the notion that biochar
amendments positively influence rice grain yield and findings support the observed higher ROIs in

quality. treatments involving NPK fertilizers combined with

biochar or other amendments (T2, T3, T4, T5), as the
The significant increase in grain yield with NPK enhanced soil fertility and nutrient availability
treatments compared to the control and vermichar- contribute to better crop performance and
alone treatment (T1 and T6) suggests the synergistic profitability.

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 Int. J. Agron. Agri. R.

The significant increase in ROI with NPK treatments Recommendation(s)

compared to the control and vermichar-alone Given the significant benefits observed from the
treatment (T1 and T6) suggests the potential application of vermichar as a soil amendment, it is
synergistic effects of NPK fertilizers and biochar on recommended that farmers and agricultural
economic returns. In conclusion, the findings from practitioners consider incorporating vermichar into
Table 11 underscore the economic viability of using their soil management practices. Vermichar's
biochar amendments like vermichar in combination nutrient-rich composition, ability to enhance soil
with NPK fertilizers to enhance rice production structure, fertility, and microbial activity, as well as
profitability. its positive impact on plant growth and development,
make it a valuable tool for improving overall soil
Conclusion
health and crop productivity. Moreover, the
Vermichar, rich in organic matter (11.86%) and
synergistic effects observed when combining
essential nutrients like phosphorus (4.41%) and with
vermichar with traditional NPK fertilizers highlight
a combined NPK value of 5.33%, shows significant
the potential for integrated nutrient management
potential as a soil amendment by enhancing soil
strategies. Therefore, integrating vermichar into
structure, fertility, water retention, and microbial
agricultural practices can contribute to sustainable
activity. Despite moderate nitrogen (0.59%) and
soil management and ultimately lead to improved
potassium (0.45%) levels, its balanced nutrient profile
crop yields.
can effectively improve soil fertility. Vermichar
significantly increased soil pH from 6.15 to 7.69 with
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