Vermicomposting uses worms to compost. This takes up very little space and
can be done year-round in a basement or garage. It is an excellent way to
dispose of kitchen wastes.
Steps:
1. You need a plastic storage bin. One 1' x 2' x 3.5' will be enough to meet
the needs of a family of 6.
2. Drill 8 to 10 holes, approximately 1/4" in diameter, in the bottom of the
bin for drainage.
3. Line the bottom of the bin with fine nylon mesh to keep the worms from
escaping.
4. Put a tray underneath to catch the drainage.
5. Shredded newspaper works well as bedding. Rip into pieces and water well
so that it is thoroughly moist. Place on one side of your bin. Do not let it
dry out.
6. Add worms to your bin. Redworms are recommended for best composting, but
other species can be used. Redworms are the common small worms found in most
gardens and lawns. You can collect them from under a pile of mulch or order
them from a garden catalog.
7. Provide worms with food wastes such as vegetable peelings. Do not add fat
or meat products. Limit feed - too much at once may cause the material to
rot.
8. Keep the bin in a dark location away from extreme temperatures.
9. In about 3 months the worms should have changed the bedding and food
wastes into compost. At this time add fresh bedding and more food to the
other side of the bin. The worms should migrate to the new food supply.
10. After a couple of weeks, open your bin in a bright light. The worms will
burrow into the bedding. Scoop out the finished compost and apply to your
plants or save for use in the spring.
