We've got worms! (Worm vermicompost that is!)
What is Vermicompost?
Vermicomposts, also known as Worm Castings are the best natural fertilizer in the world! Vermicompost is made from the castings of compost worms, special types of earthworms that eat food scraps and green waste and poop out nutrient dense humus.
Worm castings are pH neutral (7), rich in nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, magnesium, potassium, calcium and absolutely teeming with beneficial bacteria. Worm castings provide organic, slow releasing fertilizer that can last up to 3 months as well as microbes and enzymes that stimulate plant growth and fight against disease.
If you are a vegetable gardener, worm castings can significantly increase the nutrient quality of your veggies, making them even better for you! If you are just trying to beautify your landscape, worm castings and vermicompost tea are your best bet!
How to Use Vermicompost
A little bit of vermicompost goes a long way, a small handful of worm castings can feed a plant for 2-3 months! Also, unlike most conventional fertilizers, you can never apply too much vermicompost. Worm castings will never burn or harm your plants.The best way to apply vermicompost is to mix it into the top 2-6 inches of the soil at the dripline of the plant. The Dripline is the edge of the plant’s foliage or leaves. Generally, where the edge of the foliage is above ground is also where the edge of the roots are below ground.You can also mix worm castings into the soil of potted plants and houseplants for extra vibrancy and disease resistance. Vermicompost increases the water retention of soil, making it a great for houseplants that only get watered once or twice a week.
DYI Vermicompost at home!
Composting with worms is the easiest, cleanest and most hassle free way to compost. All it takes to compost effectively with worms is a Worm Bin, some shredded paper and some food scraps. You can even keep a worm bin in your kitchen for super easy food waste disposal.
Jaro and Jessica at Kauai Worms can help you get started with locally made Worm Bin kits and starter packages! They also provide free consultations on starting your own worm farm and sharing the Vermicompost Aloha!
If starting your own worm farm isn’t an option, do not fret. Kauai Worms produces high quality vermicompost right here on Kauai, as is available for purchase 6-days a week at Seascapes Nursery!
Come visit us at the nursery to pick up a bag of Kauai Worms worm castings and see the magic for yourself!
We have 5lb bags available at Kauai Seascapes Nursery for $25. You can also purchase large quantities of castings directly from Kauai Worms. We can show you our onsite worm bin and give you tips on using castings and brewing compost tea.
We also have compost tea (made from our worm castings) available for sale every Thursday!
Keep an ear out for upcoming worm composting workshops as well! Aloha and happy planting!
