Phytotoxicity of vermiwash (leachate) from home vermireactor - verification of methodology

Vermicomposting is a completely environmentally friendly technology that converts biodegradable waste into a value-added vermicompost. The vermicomposting technology can also be utilized for generating a bioliquid termed as vermiwash. In case of vermicomposting in vertical continuous feeding vermireactor (VermiHut Worm Bin), the vermiwash can be collected separately in the lowest part of vermireactor. Then the vermiwash can be used as a liquid fertilizer. The aim of the presented study was to assess the phytotoxicity of vermiwash depending on its concentration. To assess the phytotoxicity levels of the vermiwash, the germination index (GI) was calculated according to the certified methodology (the watercress assay). Within the pilot research, the certified methodology was verified and then optimized.