Effects of Vermicompost and Vermicompost Tea on Ginseng Production at 3 Wisconsin Sites.

A significant part in producing ginseng (Panax quinquefolius) successfully involves multiple applications of pesticides over the growing seasons. The purpose of this study is to investigate the effectiveness of vermicompost and vermicompost tea application over the course of three growing seasons to explore their value for improving soil health with the goal to reduce the need for pesticides. It is hypothesized that vermicompost and vermicompost tea will increase available nutrients for both the plant and microorganisms. The additional soil organic matter will stabilize the soil to reduce runoff and leaching of pesticides and the soil will hold more water. Holding nutrients and water near the soil surface, will allow the roots to grow near the soil surface with a branched pattern, which has higher economical value. Soil particle size and soil nutrient testing will lend insight to these benefits. Data for individual root mass, root mass yield, and mass of berries were collected over the three growing season from three different sites in Marshfield, WI. Each site utilized a randomized complete block and split plot experimental design. A significant increase in root mass yield was found when vermicompost tea was applied, but no significance in individual root mass. It was found that average mass of berries decreased with the application of vermicompost tea.