Vermicular Composting

You can add almost any type of vegetative table scraps to a worm compost bin.

Composting with worms, known as vermicular composting, decomposes vegetative matter quicker than traditional composting, which uses time and natural elements. Redworms or red wigglers work best for composting.

Benefits

Vermicular composting bins can be smaller than traditional composting bins, making them the perfect option for small families or those who live apartments. Place bins inside a closet or pantry or outside in the garden or on the porch.

Care

Worms eat about half their bodyweight in vegetation every day, so 2 lbs. of worms would eat 1 lb. of food each day. Only place biodegrable matter in the bin; never put meat or dairy products into the bin, which create a foul odor.

Terminology

Worm manure, known as "castings," is the actual compost taken from the compost bin and put into the garden. Harvest worm castings in as early as one or two months.

Considerations

Don't add highly acidic foods, such as pineapple, to the compost bin. It could burn the worms' skin and kill them. Keep the moisture level at the consistency of a wrung-out sponge. Too much water could drown the worms and too little water could dehydrate them.

References

• EPA: Vermicomposting
• University of Illinois Extension: Worm Composting
• Washington State University County Extension: Composting with Redworms