Insights into the Leachates of Vermicompost and Millipede Compost

Liquid organic fertilizers have higher bioavailability of nutrients and are the best alternative for chemical fertilizers. In the present study, the compost leachate from earthworm (Eudrilus eugeniae) and pill millipede (Arthrosphaera magna) as byproducts has been compared for their nutrients as potential liquid fertilizers. The compost was prepared from pre-digested leaf litter and cow dung (60:40, w/w). The leachate collection commenced 15 days after the setup and continued on 25, 35, 45, 55, and 65 days. The dark amber-colored vermicompost leachate (VCL) and honey-colored pill millipede compost leachate (MCL) collected were analyzed for physicochemical composition. Pre-digested organic material without earthworms or millipedes served as a control (CL). Results indicate that VCL shows a higher value than MCL and the CL for conductivity, TDS, salinity, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, magnesium, and sodium. Nitrogen content and other nutrients were high in MCL, making it a good supplement. The C/N ratio of CL drastically reduced in VCL and MCL, facilitating quick availability of nitrogen. Given the increasing demand for liquid organic fertilizers due to their ease of application and high nutrient availability, both VCL and MCL serve as effective organic fertilizers.