Impact of Vermicompost and Biofertilizers on Selected Quality Parameters of Chickpea

This study was conducted to determine the effects of different doses of vermicompost (0, 2500, 5000, 7500 kg ha⁻¹) and two biofertilizers (Rhizobium ciceri and Bacillus megaterium) on the quality traits of İnci and Hasanbey chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) varieties over a two-year period. The experiments were arranged in a randomized split-split plot design with three replications, and the quality parameters investigated included protein, ash, moisture, starch, cellulose, and oil contents. The results indicated that Rhizobium application provided the highest protein content (21.6%) and also achieved the maximum oil content. Vermicompost at 7500 kg ha⁻¹ increased protein content to 21.1%, while the highest ash content (3.78%) was obtained with 5000 kg ha⁻¹ vermicompost. Other quality parameters were recorded as follows: moisture 9.08%, starch 54.66%, and cellulose 7.25%. Rhizobium application was also superior in terms of oil content. In conclusion, both vermicompost and biofertilizers positively influenced the quality traits of chickpea seeds. Rhizobium was particularly effective in enhancing protein and oil contents, whereas higher doses of vermicompost contributed significantly to protein and ash accumulation. These findings highlight the potential of organic and biofertilizers to improve chickpea quality within the framework of sustainable and environmentally friendly agricultural practices.