Effect of Liquid Vermicompost Fertilizer on Thai Basil Yield and Quality Parameters Under Greenhouse Conditions

Liquid vermicompost fertilizer (LVF) represents a valuable organic resource in the promotion of sustainable crop production. This study assessed how LVF at four different dilution rates (0, 0.5:1000, 1:1000, and 1.5:1000, v/v) impacted the growth, yield, and quality parameters of Thai basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) grown in greenhouse conditions. The study was carried out from September 2023 to January 2024 at Ton Duc Thang University, Vietnam. Measurements and statistical analyses were conducted on growth and yield traits, which included plant height, leaf area (LA), leaf number, and fresh biomass. Additionally, quality parameters such as total phenolic content, total flavonoid content, and antioxidant activity were also assessed. The application of LVF had a notable impact on all of the assessed parameters (p < 0.05). The highest LVF rate (1.5:1000) led to the most substantial increases in plant height, LA, leaf number, and fresh weight, while also significantly boosting phenolic and flavonoid content in comparison to the control. The antioxidant activity demonstrated a distinct upward trend as the concentration of LVF was increased.