Research Article
Evaluation of Vermicompost Integrated with Chemical Fertilizer on Yield and Yield Components of Tef in Dugda District of East Shoa Zone, Oromia
Kasahun Kitila Hunde*
,
Mekonnen Workineh Lindi
Issue:
Volume 14, Issue 2, April 2026
Pages:
14-21
Received:
12 March 2026
Accepted:
31 March 2026
Published:
27 June 2026
DOI:
10.11648/j.bio.20261402.11
Downloads:
Views:
Abstract: The Integrated Soil Fertility Management (ISFM) is to maintain soil health and crop production. A study was carried out in East Shewa Zone, Dugda District, on farmers’ fields to evaluate the combined effects of vermicompost (organic fertilizer) and NPS (inorganic fertilizer) on soil chemical properties and Tef production. Integrated soil fertility management, involving the use of both organic and inorganic fertilizers, aims to sustain soil fertility and enhance crop yields. Although analysis of variance revealed no significant differences (p≥ 0.05) in Tef grain yield, panicle length, plant height, and harvest index among treatments, the highest grain yield of Tef (1750.33 kg ha-1) was recorded in the treatment where 50% of the Nitrogen requirement was supplied through vermicompost. Composite soil samples collected before fertilizer application and after harvest were analyzed to assess the residual effects of vermicompost on soil physicochemical properties. Results showed that soil pH was not significantly influenced (p≥ 0.05) by vermicompost application. However, soil organic carbon (SOC), cation exchange capacity (CEC), available phosphorus (P), and total nitrogen (TN) significantly improved (P≤0.05) with vermicompost use. Initial soil tests indicated low levels of SOC, CEC, available P, and TN, highlighting the positive residual impact of vermicompost on soil fertility. A partial budget analysis identified the economically optimal treatment as the one combining 50% vermicompost with NPS fertilizer, yielding the highest net benefit of 202,540 Birr per hectare. Therefore, the study concludes that integrating 50% vermicompost (1.725 t/ha) with 46 kg ha-1 P2O5 (100kgDAP) fertilizer enhances Tef productivity and soil fertility in the study area and similar agro-ecological zones.
Abstract: The Integrated Soil Fertility Management (ISFM) is to maintain soil health and crop production. A study was carried out in East Shewa Zone, Dugda District, on farmers’ fields to evaluate the combined effects of vermicompost (organic fertilizer) and NPS (inorganic fertilizer) on soil chemical properties and Tef production. Integrated soil fertility ...
Show More
