Vermicomposting
Worm composting is a great way to do balcony composting for a multitude of reasons. The greatest thing is that it doesn’t take much to get started! Just a Worm Bin!
Easiest way to get started is to make a Simple Worm Bin Composter.
- First step is to get, or make, a worm bin.
- Next, find a location for your bin that will keep a reasonable temperature and is shaded.
- Add a layer of carbon bedding to your bin. Most commonly ripped or shredded newspaper moistened but not to the point of sogginess with added dirt to help your worms digest.
- Add the worms. Read my first worm post (scroll down to read more about the type of worms).
- Add kitchen scraps slowly at first, a couple of pounds a week. Then more liberally.
- While adding kitchen scraps re-add carbon layers like the initial bedding. This keeps the worms happy and keeps the compost from smelling.
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Customizing worm bins with ventilation holes are an excellent ways to keep the bugs out.
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Custom side ventilation keeps things looking pretty
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Spicket for tea release!
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The big brother of the rubbermaid bin composting system is the best for vermicomposting in a yard.
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The compost comes out spectacular
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How many healthy worms can you find? I count elleventy.
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With vermicomposting the good stuff is on the bottom. Use a tool to rake it aside to access the gold beneath
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Pick out the worms and empty out the worm casing compost!
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Bedding for your bin can be made as easily as ripping up some free newspaper
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Soak the paper, wring it out, and you've got your bedding
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And done.
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Red worms (Lumbricus rubellus & Eisenia fetida) are the best worms to use for processing organic material in worm bins. They will reproduce to the right quantity for the amount of garbage you have, they also are able to live in a wide variety of temperatures
Winter Time? Here’s my Winter Worm Story.
Check the Resources page for links on where to buy red worms, and different worm bins to make.