Effects of different levels of vermicompost and biofertilizers on essential oil content and uptake of some elements in cumin (Cuminum cyminum L.)

Bio-fertilizers are one of the most useful resources to improve the soil quality and increased yield in different plants. In order to study the effect of different levels of vermicompost and mycorrhizal fungi on essential oil content and uptake of some elements in cumin (Cuminum cyminum L.), a factorial experiment based on randomized complete blocks design with twelve treatments and three replications was conducted at the Agricultural Research Station, Faculty of Agriculture, Yasouj University, during 2012-2013. Experimental treatments consisted of three levels of vermicompost (0, 5 and 10 tons per hectare), and four levels of mycorrhizal fungi (no application, application of Glomus mossae, application of Glomus intraradices and both species) in the soil. Results indicated that the most content of essential oil was obtained from the application of 10 tons vermicompost and Glomus intraradices (3.13%). In addition, the highest content of grain phosphorus (0.26%) and grain nitrogen (1.43%) belonged to the treatment of 10 tons vermicompost and combined application of Glomus mossae and Glomus intraradices. The highest yield of essential oil was obtained from 10 tons vermicompost and application of Glomus mossae. Overall, the results of this experiment showed that using of vermicompost and mycorrhiza can improve the content and yield of essential oil and uptake of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium in cumin.