Effects of Eisenia fetida coelomic fluid and vermicompost on broccoli (Brassica oleracea L. var. italica) yield

Abstract

Broccoli (Brassica oleracea L. var. italica) is an excellent source of health-promoting nutrients. This study aimed to investigate the effects of applications of earthworm (Eisenia fetida) coelomic fluid and vermicompost on the growth and yield of broccoli over a four-month cultivation period. Significant differences were observed among the treatments for all growth parameters. The highest plant length was recorded under coelomic fluid treatment (88 cm) and the lowest in the control (66 cm). The combined vermicompost and coelomic fluid application resulted in the greatest leaf length (20 cm), while the control had the lowest. Leaf width was highest with coelomic fluid (16.4 cm) and lowest in the control and vermicompost treatments (13 cm). Mineral analysis revealed significant treatment effects. The highest concentrations of Al (79.32 µg g⁻¹), Fe (86.33 µg g⁻¹), Mg (1872.76 µg g⁻¹), K (209.15 µg g⁻¹), and Na (633.30 µg g⁻¹) were observed in the control treatment. Vermicompost application reduced Al and Fe concentrations by 76% and 55%, respectively. The combined vermicompost and coelomic fluid treatment increased Cu levels nearly fourfold and Zn levels by 71% compared to the control. Coelomic fluid treatment resulted in the lowest Mg and K levels, with reductions of 53% and 48%, respectively, while organic (Coelomic fluid and vermicompost) treatments also reduced Na accumulation. Phosphorus, cadmium, and lead were below the limit of detection in all treatments. This study demonstrates that coelomic fluid and vermicompost are environmentally friendly resources that enhance broccoli growth and yield in sustainable agriculture.

Keywords

• Broccoli
• Earthworm
• Productivity
• Vermicompost

Supporting Institution

Pamukkale University Scientific Research Projects Unit - 2020FEBE013.

Project Number

2020FEBE013

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