Home & Garden Green Living

How to Start Your Own Vermicompost

Composting is the act of taking biodegradable wastes and consumables and hasting the inevitable.
This of course being the fact that the aforementioned will eventually break down and go back into the earth.
By throwing the prefix "vermi" in there, you are then relying on the assistance of vermin.
In this case we are referring to the usage of Eisenia foetida, or more commonly known as Redworms.
Vermicomposting has become increasingly popular because of the amazing efficiency of these creatures.
The Redworm has the uncanny ability to consume at least five times its body weight in a matter of a few hours.
If that's not enough to stop you in your tracks consider its reproductive ability.
A single Redworm only needs itself to start a family, and given the right conditions it will multiply in a matter of weeks.
Now, with a few components you can actually begin vermicomposting today.
You first want to acquire a Rubbermaid (or similar) bin.
The darker the color the better.
Your pet worms love the environment really dark.
Next, with a tiny nail, hammer a line of holes into the sides.
Preferably around the base, the top of the sides, and into the lid.
Three inches apart is ideal.
Also keep in mind this will be much easier with drill and 3/16th bit.
You now want to prepare bedding for the Redworms.
When vermicomposting its best that you start out with damp cardboard (not paperboard).
You will achieve best results because cardboard retains moisture very well and E.
F loves to burrow in the tunnels.
Trust me on this.
In my experiences, the Redworms multiply like crazy in a cardboard medium.
Layer your damp cardboard to about 1/4th of the way up the bin.
Caution: Damp means that you need to be able to squeeze out excess water.
Now the fun part.
Get your worms! Its best that you get them off of eBay because of great wholesale prices.
Simply search for Redworms.
If you don't think you're quite ready for hundreds of Redworms target your local fish & tackle shop.
Make sure you tell them that you want Redworms.
Don't worry about the small quantity the shop may give you.
Remember, given the right conditions these creatures multiply quickly.
Once you get them at your home just dump them onto the surface in the bin.
They'll disperse shortly.
That's it! All you have to do is make sure that you keep them moist and cool.
They will surely perish in temperatures over 85F.
Don't allow them to freeze either.
At least 52F is good.
As for feedings, give them your green kitchen scraps.
No meats, no dairies, and no oils.
The cool part about vermicomposting this way is that it allows anyone to contribute in even the smallest of dwellings.
Not everyone has the luxury of a large yard to create compost piles.
You can just place your bin in a dark cool cabinet.
Its low maintenance and results in powerful fertilizer.
Try it today!


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