EFFECT OF VERMICOMPOST LEACHATE TYPE ON CORN GROWTH, YIELD AND QUALITY

Juana Cruz Gacía-Santiago, Miriam Sánchez-Vega, Hermes Pérez-Hernández, Alonso Méndez-López

Abstract


Background. Vermicompost leachate enhances soil quality and promotes sustainable agricultural production. However, the characteristics and effects of vermicompost leachate on crops depend on the type of waste and the proportion in which the materials are mixed during their preparation. Objective. To evaluate the effect of different types of vermicompost leachate on the morphological parameters, yield, and fruit quality of corn (hybrid AN-447). Methodology. Eighteen vermicompost leachates were evaluated, obtained from vermicomposting various mixtures of three types of manure (bovine [V], equine [E], and goat [C]), two plant residues (vegetables [H] and corn stover [R]), and three manure-to-plant residue ratios (50:50, 60:40, and 70:30%, v:v), along with one commercial vermicompost leachate (LC), and a control. A randomized complete block design with four replications was used. Leachates were drench-applied at 10% every 15 days starting from corn emergence. Results. The results showed that the leachates had a significant effect on morphological parameters and ear characteristics, though they were not statistically superior to the control. On the other hand, corn grain yield varied according to the type of vermicompost leachate applied, with most leachates showing a notable increase in yield, on average 61% higher than the control. Additionally, total soluble solids, titratable acidity, vitamin C content, and fruit firmness fluctuated depending on the leachate type; however, only total soluble solids and titratable acidity were improved with the application of leachates E70-H30 and C60-R40. Implications. The study suggests that careful selection of both the type of leachate and the proportion of waste materials used in its production is essential to maximize its benefits in agricultural production. Conclusion. The type of vermicompost leachate applied to corn crops affects morphological traits, yield, and fruit quality in different ways.

Keywords


Zea mays; agroecology; organic fertilization; vermicomposting; waste.

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References


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URN: http://www.revista.ccba.uady.mx/urn:ISSN:1870-0462-tsaes.v28i2.59293

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.56369/tsaes.5929

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Copyright (c) 2025 Alonso Méndez-López, Juana Cruz Gacía-Santiago, Miriam Sánchez-Vega, Hermes Pérez-Hernández

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