| Experiments were conducted at Mississippi State University in 1997 to evaluate earthworm, Eisenia fetida andrei, castings as a growth media for marigolds. It was found that earthworm castings increased growth index, stem diameter, root growth, dry weight, flower initiation and flower number compared to the peat moss: perlite 7:3, Sunshine{dollar}spcircler{dollar}, and Pine bark: sand 4:1. Mixture of castings with peat moss: perlite 7:3 pine bark: sand 4:1 at the ratios of 1:1, 2:1, and 3:1 (media: casting) increased the performance for all growth parameters evaluated.; Using HPLC and thin layer chromatography, the presence of auxins in earthworms and the media used to culture the earthworms was determined. Indole compounds were detected in the earthworms, but it was not possible to identify specific auxins. |
