In a recent post I made a statement about putting kitchen scraps in a worm bin.
Here is a good video showing a simple way to start one.
This is an easy way to get started. This is referred to as worm composting. The technical term for it is vermiculture. The worms eat the organic matter and produce worm castings (A.K.A. worm poop).The castings are nutrient-rich and probably the best fertilizer an organic gardener can use.
I would recommend using an 1/8" drill bit to drill holes in the bottom of the bin. Any larger and the worms may be able to escape.....any smaller and the holes may clog and not drain properly. Also, drill several holes under the top lip on the bin for good air circulation. I also recommend running the news paper through a paper shredder. Its not required, but it helps. You can also add strips of cardboard, shredded junk mail, leaves, and kitchen scraps. Worms love coffee grounds. Materials that shouldn't be used include meat or greasy food items, citrus, or starchy items such as bread or pasta.
I recommend using Red Wiggler worms. They are available on-line from many sources. You can also contact your local county extension agency and possibly obtain a few free to get started. I started mine with worms from a friend. He started his with a dozen free worms that he obtained from our county extension agent. They will quickly reproduce if properly feed.
So get started and you can produce your own free organic fertilizer!
Soooo...... Until next time......HAPPY GARDENING!
I keep my worms in an old dishwasher turned on its back. They're not picky at all, and the "worm tea" is great stuff. One of these days I need to do a post on it.
ReplyDeleteThe dishwasher is a great idea! I'm keeping an eye out for a bath tub that someone has put out to the curb.
ReplyDelete