Worm castings stimulates germination of seedlings for aquaponics system

A series of trials was conducted to test the effect of small quantities of vermicompost on the growth of three leafy vegetables grown in oasis cubes for aquaponic production. The vegetables were: 1) red amaranth, 2) pak-choi, and 3) Chinese mustard green. Two vermicomposts were used: a) worm castings from cow manure, and b) worm castings from a vegetarian food source. These were compared with: c) commercial organic compost and d) a control with no compost added. Compost was applied at the rate of 210 mg (0.007 oz) per cube (1 seed per cube). Results showed compost treatments enhanced germination and growth rates, with the greatest response observed from cow manure worm castings. The incorporation of small quantities of compost into seedling production would shorten the time from seeding to transfer of the grow out phase by 7-10 days when using Oasis® cubes.