Percepção do papel da vermicompostagem em plantas apícolas pelos agricultores familiares

Abstract

Vermicompost is a very rich organic fertiliser whose production trend is becoming more popular every day, whether for using and selling the vermicompost or selling worm matrices, which strengthens family income. However, its understanding by farmers still needs more attention and publicity. The aim of this study was to determine farmers' perceptions of the use and beneficial effects of vermicompost. Data was collected through interviews with 50 randomly selected interviewees in the municipalities of Sumé, Coxixola and São José dos Cordeiros in 2022. The majority (88.4%) of those interviewed said they had no knowledge of the production, use and benefits of worm humus, while 8.6% said they had already had experience setting up a vermicomposting plant, showing a moderate perception of humus. Only 3.0 per cent of the survey participants showed a significant positive relationship, mentioning that they vermicompost frequently, listing the benefits of worm humus as improving soil health and plant nutrition. In general, all the participants mentioned a lack of guidance and technical assistance to improve their activity. Thus, the organisation of training actions could pave the way for a higher perception of vermicompost, strengthening the expansion of technology in the area that has the potential to increase sustainable crop productivity, soil conservation and boost rural people's income.