Vermicomposting, or worm composting, is a fun and easy way to compost food waste.

Vermicomposting utilizes worms to convert organic matter into nutrient rich vermicast (compost). The worm castings (worm poop) contains highly-concentrated nutrients that are valuable to garden and house plants.  Vermicomposting can be achieved both indoors or out. With vermicomposting, a yard or a compost pile are not even necessary.

When added to soil, vermicompost has many benefits that include:

• enriching the physical structure of soil
• enhancing crop yeid, germination, and plant growth
• increasing nutrients associated with the higher presence of micro-organisms found in worm castings
• retaining water so that the soil holds moisture efficently
• improving soil aeration, drainage, and stability
• preventing nutrients to be washed due to the presence of residual worm mucus
• reducing pathogenic bacteria which is harmful to humans and animals/pets
• elevating antibiotic properties and natural plant growth hormones

The most common worms for vermicomposting are red wigglers (Eisenia fotida). These worms can double their population in three months; however, they can self-regulate as to not over populate the area, but can also be successful in a slightly over-populated environment. Red wigglers are able to eat about ½ of their weight per day. One pound of worms can eat ½ pound of food per day. In addition, red wigglers love the dark (and hate the light)...so escapees are a rare occurrence.