Efficiency Test of Composts Produced by Using EM (Bokashi) Compared to Other Microorganisms

Abstract

Effects of composts, produced by using different sources of inoculants (EM, effective microorganisms; Hi-tech, high technology; LDD.1, Land Development Department no.1; FCM, fresh cattle manure; Bokashi, Bokashi prepared from EM and rice straw) on growth and yields of water convolvulous, Chinese kale, and pakchoi cultivated in sandy Korach soil series were investigated. Each type of compost was mixed with 5 kg of soil contained in the pod, at the ratio of 1:1 by weight. Soil alone (10 kg) and soil (10 kg) plus NPK 16-16-16 at the rate of 1.5 g/pod were used as check treatments. Four replicates of each treatment were used and randomized complete block design was followed. Vegetables were allowed to grow in the green-house for 1 month and growth (plant height) and yield (fresh weight) were measured. Results revealed that composts prepared by using all type of inoculants could support better growth of the three vegetables. Composts from EM, LDD.1, and FCM gave highest yields of all kind of vegetables. Compost from Hi-tech was able to give higher yields of Chinese kale and pakchoi but not that of water convolvulous. It is suggested that composts from some inoculants could support growth and yields of some vegetables, and the use of inoculants for compost production should be dependent on the cost of production.