Worm Castings
I thought worms didn’t have bones.
Not `a' cast…cast-'ings' is the common term used for the byproduct of worms decomposing organic matter. But if we used ‘vermicompost’ (the scientific term) instead, even fewer of us would have known what we are doing here. And all of that is just the long way to say…worm turds. Yup. That’s what it is.
The benefits of using worm castings as your go-to soil amendment are quite simply amazing. We will cover some of the basics here, however, we encourage you to check us out online where we have much more information, tips and guides to share with you. From being one of the only all-natural soil additions, to it being almost magical in its given results.
When should I use worm castings and how much do I need?
With the infallible nature of worm castings, the simple answer is…’Whenever you want and as much as you want. If you are new to the benefits of using vermicompost, most will follow these general guidelines. When starting seeds, mix anywhere between 20% and 50% worm castings to the soil mix of your choosing. Then every two months throughout the growing season, or year-round for potted plants. And if you think you’ve overdone it, relax. You will never burn a plant. Worm turds are pH neutral, unlike most other soil amendments.
What sort of results can be expected with worm castings?
Simply put, expect to be amazed. Over the last 10 plus years, and still ongoing, vermicompost studies have proven the benefits of its usage time and time again. Not only has it shown to be arguably the most beneficial soil amendment, but environmentally beneficial as an all-natural product when ethically produced and harvested. One study by Washington State University showed that worm castings greatly increases water retention therefore boosting seed germination. More plants mean…higher yields. Also, being covered in beneficial bacteria and enzymes proved to suppress disease among plants according to researchers at Cornell University. Healthier plants mean…higher yields. Now here’s a big one. The University of California released a study showing an increase of foliage and fruit by, get this, 57% to 200%. Another, you guessed it…increase. Increase upon increase upon increase. These little critters are just amazing.
These are just a few examples of the advantages of using vermicompost. In short, we encourage you to come along with us and learn more about worm castings, red wigglers and the benefits of their use. You’ll be pleased, to say the least, at what you'll get out of a little bag of crap.