They have both fast- and- slow-releasing nutrients, but their main benefit is biological.īeneficial bacteria and fungi are concentrated in the last chamber of the worm gut, and inoculate the worm castings as they pass through. Worm castings are a top-notch organic fertilizer for growing vegetables in containers. Growing Tomatoes in Cool-Summer GardensĪ worm composting system harnesses red compost worms, Eisinea foetida, and a contained forest floor ecosystem to convert kitchen scraps and shredded paper into worm castings, one of the best organic fertilizers you can get.Wormy FACTS and Interesting Tidbits (By Rhonda Sherman). South African Journal of Zoology 23:161–165. The life-cycle of the compost worm Eisenia fetida (Oligochaeta). Going on a worm hunt: Eisenia fetida, a stripy worm. THE SCIENCE OF VERMICULTURE: THE USE OF EARTHWORMS IN ORGANIC WASTE MANAGEMENT:25.Įisenia andrei specimen during the experiment. Bins must have a drainage system because the worms create castings which is the excrement from red wigglers and provides great nutrients to plants.Įdwards, C. Other worms can be used for vermicomposting, but red wiggler worms are the most efficient in composting. Compost bins should begin with about a thousand (1 lb.) red wiggler worms. Eisenia Fetida can consume 25-35% of their body weight per day, so this type of composting works quite fast. The compost does not need to be turned like other compost methods, and should be avoided or worms may perish.
The environment needs to be kept moist, but an abundance of water should never be added, or the worms will drown. Bedding, such as shredded paper or other soft absorbent material, is needed for worms to thrive.
Vermicomposting bins can be bought, but when homemade, it is important that they are dark in color (earthworms are sensitive to light), have holes for aeration, and a drainage system. Worms can be used as a compost method called vermicomposting. Composting is a great way to make use out of food and other organic waste.
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