Vermicompost based media influenced dry matter partition of African marigold seedlings

This research investigates the effect of vermicompost-based media on the dry matter partitioning in African marigold (Tagetes erecta) seedlings. The study aimed to assess how different species of vermicompost in the growing medium influence the growth and
development of marigold seedlings, with a focus on dry matter distribution among various plant parts. Six different vermicompost-
based growth media were tested along with a control. Parameters such as germination percent, seedling vigour index II, plant height, number of leaves, stem girth, leaf area, stem and root biomass, overall dry weight and physiological parameters like net assimilation
rate (NAR), relative growth rate (RGR), leaf area ratio (LAR), stem elongation rate (SER), leaf expansion rate (LER) were measured
to determine the impact of vermicompost on seedling performance. The results demonstrated that medium containing cocopeat and
vermicompost produced from Eisenia fetida (2:1 v/v) gave the best results, suggesting that this medium can optimize growth
conditions for marigold seedlings. This study provides insights into the potential of using organic-based media for improving
seedling production and offers practical recommendations for the sustainable production of African marigold seedlings.