Vermicomposting turns organic waste into nutrient rich compost using the natural inclinations of worms like nightcrawlers and red wigglers. The end product is vermicompost.
Get the Right Worms
While there are earthworm species exist, some are especially favored as vermicompostors.
Red Wigglers (Eisenia fetida): The most popular choice, red wigglers are surface dwellers and thrive in decaying organic matter. Voracious eaters, they reproduce quickly.
European Nightcrawlers (Dendrobaena hortensis): Larger than red wigglers, they are also suitable for vermicomposting, especially in larger quantities.
African Nightcrawlers (Eudrilus eugeniae): Best suited for warmer climates, they can't tolerate cold temperatures.
Microorganisms also find their way into the mix in vermicomposting. These include Bacillus sp, Klebsiella sp and Azatobacter sp, and fungi such as Aspergillus sp, Microsporum sp, Penicillium sp and Trichophyton sp.
The Vermicomposting Process
It takes a few months.
Vermicomposting Bin: A container with drainage and airflow. It can be bought or made of plastic, sturdy wood or pre-made worm bins from garden stores. Be sure the lid fits well. Worms will test it, and so will any potential predators if it's outdoors.
The bin should have small holes for aeration. If they're too big the worms will squirm through and go exploring. Holes allow oxygen and proper draining of excess moisture.
Layer the bottom of the bin with a damp bedding material like shredded cardboard, newspaper, or coconut coir. About 7 cm (3 in) of shredded newspaper provides moisture retention while nourishing the worms.
Common bedding materials also include peat moss and dried leaves. Moisten the bedding so it feels like a wrung-out sponge. Maintain this level of moisture throughout.
Worms: Put the worms in their new home. Start feeding them. Begin with small amounts of kitchen scraps, such as vegetable peelings, fruit rinds and coffee grounds. Avoid meat, dairy and oily foods, which can produce bad smells and attract pests.
As the worms eat the waste, they generate nutrient-rich worm castings. Monitor the moisture levels in the bin carefully. Signs of readiness include a dark, crumbly texture and a pleasant, earthy smell.
Worm castings don't look like much, but they're a biologically active blend of bacteria, enzymes, plant matter remnants and manure. When moist they contain earthworm cocoons which will find their way into soil.
Castings are abundant in water-soluble plant nutrients. They have over 50% more humus than typically present in topsoil.
To harvest the castings, shift the finished compost to one side and add fresh bedding and food to the other side or use a different container to collect the castings. Clean the worm bin during harvest.
Remove any undigested materials. Refresh the bedding to ensure a comfortable environment for the worms as they go about their work.
Caring for Worms
Moisture: Maintain consistent moisture in the bin
Temperature: Keep the bin between 13-25°C (55-77°F). Protect from extreme heat or cold.
Feeding: Start with small amounts and increase.
Aeration: Occasionally fluff the bedding to provide oxygen.
pH balance: Avoid highly acidic or alkaline foods.
Avoid toxins: Keep toxins like pesticides and cleaning chemicals away from the bin.
Facts About Vermicomposting:
Reduces Landfill Waste: Vermicomposting diverts food scraps from landfills, thus decreases methane emissions.
Nutrient-Rich Fertilizer: Vermicompost is full of essential vitamins and minerals like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. It contains up to 50% more nutrients than regular compost.
Improved Soil Structure: Vermicompost improves soil aeration, drainage, and water retention.
Beneficial Microbes: It introduces beneficial microbes to the soil, promoting healthy plant growth.
Natural Pest and Disease Resistance: Vermicompost can help plants resist pests and diseases.
Low Maintenance: Once the vermicomposting system is established, it needs minimal effort.
Home Gardening Benefits: Using vermicompost in the garden can grow healthier plants and increase crop yields. The slow-release nutrients make them available to plants throughout their growth cycle.
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