Vermicomposting with the use of spent coffee grounds from coffee shops

Abstract

In this investigation, primary and secondary mixtures were used in five distinct combinations. One mixture with equal parts cow manure and composted manure was used as the secondary treatment, whereas the primary treatment comprised four mixtures with varying amounts of cow manure and wasted coffee grounds. In the laboratories of Perrotis College in Thessaloniki, Greece, the experiment was carried out. Using plastic containers, the first experiment created various combinations of leftover coffee grounds and cow dung. Weighing was done in batches of 10 adult earthworms of the species Eisenia fetida. We measured the adult worms, their mortality, and the change in biomass after four weeks. Adult worms who survived the second trial were placed in containers with equal parts fresh cow manure and composted manure. Each sample's pH and EC were measured, and vermicompost extracts were made by mixing 10g of vermicompost with 100ml of distilled water. Next, the solution was put into petri dishes that had lettuce sativum seeds and Whatman No. 1 paper lined on them. After 48 hours, the germination rate was assessed at 22°C. Apart from sample 8, which lost eight out of ten earthworms, the results indicated that the biomass of earthworms had grown. The SCG 33% produced the most cocoons during the four-week period, and the average weight of the earthworms increased considerably. The SCG 0% had the highest EC, whereas the SCG 33% had the highest average pH, according to the pH and EC analysis. According to the results, a maximum ratio of 33% should be used when vermicomposting wasted coffee grounds with cow dung. Unless the SCGs have been pre-treated to reduce their acidity and remove or neutralize potentially dangerous compounds, mixes with higher SCG percentages should be avoided. To maintain ideal conditions and avoid negative effects on the earthworm population, it is crucial to regularly monitor important environmental factors during the vermicomposting process.