In this video, Tricia shows you how to comopst with worms, a process called vermicomposting. Please see our full selection of composting supplies for sale.
Start Your Own Worm Bin: The Power of Vermiculture
Worm castings, often called worm manure, are nature’s powerhouse fertilizer, containing 5 to 11 times more nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium than regular soil. Additionally, worm compost is richer in micronutrients than standard aerobic compost. Let’s dive into starting a worm bin to transform kitchen scraps into nutrient-rich compost.
Setting Up Your Worm Bin
To begin, you’ll need a bin. Options include plastic containers, wooden boxes, or specialized bins like the Can-O-Worms. Choose a size based on your weekly food scrap generation. As a rule of thumb, you’ll need one square foot of bin surface area per pound of scraps. Ensure your bin has ventilation holes, as worms require oxygen, and elevate it to collect liquid fertilizer beneath.
Preparing the Worm Bin
Use shredded newspaper, cardboard, or coconut coir as bedding. Moisten it until it’s as damp as a wrung-out sponge. If using a layered bin like the Can-O-Worms, start with newspaper to prevent bedding from falling through the holes. Add bedding material about two-thirds full and mix in some builder’s sand or coffee grounds to aid digestion.
Adding Worms
Select composting worms like red worms, European nightcrawlers, or brandling worms, as garden earthworms won’t survive in a bin. Start with about 1,000 worms (one pound), and watch them burrow into the bedding to escape the light.
Feeding and Maintenance
Feed worms slowly, starting with one to two feedings per week. Bury scraps under the bedding, rotating locations. Avoid giving worms meat, dairy, spicy foods, or excessive citrus. Keep the bedding moist by covering it with damp burlap.
Harvesting Compost and Fertilizer
Once the bedding turns into rich compost, add a new layer of bedding and food scraps. Worms will migrate upward, leaving behind usable compost. Collect nutrient-rich liquid fertilizer from the bottom tray to boost your plants.
