Improving Soil Fertility and Tomato Yield Using Organic Matter and Vermicompost in the Agroecosystem of Netrokona, Bangladesh

Abstract

Excessive reliance on chemical fertilizers in modern agriculture has led to soil degradation and reduced sustainability. This study assessed the effects of organic matter (OM) and vermicompost (VC) on soil fertility and the growth performance of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) under field conditions in Netrokona’s low-organic matter soils. The experiment was structured using a randomized block design comprising four treatment groups: Control (T₀), organic matter (T₁), vermicompost (T₂), and a combined organic amendment (T₃, consisting of 2.5 t/ha OM + 1.25 t/ha VC). The T₃ treatment improved tomato yield per plant by 66% and soil organic matter content by 93% compared to the control. The combined application (T₃) significantly enhanced plant height, fruit number, fruit weight, and yield compared to other treatments. Tomato yield increased by 66% and soil organic matter content rose by 93% under T₃ relative to the control. Soil analyses revealed that T₂ and T₃ improved organic matter content, total nitrogen, available phosphorus, sulfur, and micronutrients (Zn and B), with T₃ showing the most pronounced effects. Specifically, T₃ raised total nitrogen to 0.19%, available phosphorus to 22.8 ppm, potassium to 144 ppm, and micronutrients like Zn and B to 1.04 ppm and 0.38 ppm, respectively. Soil pH remained within the optimal range across all treatments, indicating the buffering capacity of the organic amendments. The results demonstrate that integrating compost and vermicompost synergistically improves soil nutrient status and crop productivity. These findings highlight the potential of OM + VC application as a sustainable nutrient management strategy. This is especially important for low-input, organic matter-deficient subtropical soils.