Use of vermicompost on the growth of (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.)

Abstract

The objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of vermicompost on the development of roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.). The seeds were germinated in trays using Californian red worm humus, aiming for more permeable and nutrient-rich soil. Simultaneously, 40x60 cm bags containing 4 kg of soil were prepared, in which different amounts of vermicompost were applied at 25-day intervals, up to 75 days. The area preparation and planting were organized to ensure adequate spacing, placing the 64 bags with a 50 cm gap between each plant. The experiment was designed using a Randomized Complete Block Design with four treatments and four repetitions. The treatments were: T1= 0.50 kg of vermicompost, T2= 0.75 kg of vermicompost, T3= 1.00 kg of vermicompost, and T4= control. Plant height, stem diameter, number of leaves, and number of flowers were evaluated. An analysis of variance and mean comparisons (Tukey) was performed. The results indicated no statistically significant differences between treatments T1, T2, and T3, but significant differences between these treatments and the control (T4). These findings demonstrate the positive effect of vermicompost on the organic fertilization of roselle and confirm that the crop is viable in the soil type present.