Abstract

DOMINGUEZ, Jorge; LAZCANO, Cristina  and  GOMEZ-BRANDON, María. Influence of vermicompost on plant growth: Contributions toward the development of an objective concept. Acta Zool. Mex [online]. 2010, vol.26, n.spe2, pp.359-371. ISSN 2448-8445.

Many studies have shown that the addition of vermicompost to plant growing media has beneficial effects on growth and development of a wide range of plant species. Some of the proposed mechanisms involved in this growth stimulation are: nutrient release, enhancement of physical properties of the substrates and inoculation of beneficial microorganisms with the ability to increase the solubility of essential nutrients for plant growth and produce plant growth promoting substances. In the last years research efforts have been centered in the investigation of these hormonal effects and, more precisely, on the role of humic substances as carriers of these plant growth regulating substances (PGRs). However, the existence of conflicting results in the literature evidences the need for new research lines and definition of a clear and objective concept of vermicompost.

Keywords : Plant growth regulating substances; rhizosphere; microorganisms; humic substances; agro-ecology; organic fertilizers.

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