Vermicompost Solution As a Nutrient Source in Hydroponic Crop Production.

Hydroponics is an agricultural method in which plants are grown in a substrate through which nutrient rich solution is pumped, bathing the roots of the plants. Hydroponic solutions can be tailored to crops with different nutritional needs. Hydroponics is an exciting alternative to traditional agriculture and can boost local food production in areas where traditional agricultural methods might not be viable. Here in South Texas, our climate and the amount of readily available land lend themselves to traditional agriculture, but there still are some benefits to hydroponics. While hydroponics does require some infrastructure, it allows for increased control over the environment and can eliminate the need for additional pest and weed control, it also makes year round production of crops possible. This experiment measures the effects of using the products of vermicomposting as hydroponic solution in serrano peppers (Capsicum annuum) and garden beans (Phaseolus vulgaris). Vermiculture complements composting by further breaking down organic waste already partially broken down by traditional composting methods. The products of Vermicomposting are leachate and humus, both of which are rich in nutrients and often used as soil additives. This experiment used these products to produce two hydroponic solutions which were compared to each other, one from the leachate, one from humus and traditional hydroponic control solution. The viability of vermicompost products as an ingredient for hydroponic solution is the focus of this experiment.  At initial stages, the plants developed at similar rates, however, the results of the experiment are inconclusive due to environmental factors and difficulty maintaining pH levels in treatment solutions. The experiment could be improved by having stricter environmental controls and determining an effective method of pH control.