compost v wormsMany people ask “What’s the difference between Compost and Worm Poo” so I thought I’d share a few things with you.

Both system have great benefits to the soil and your garden, it just depend which system works best for your gardening situation.

Composting System

Compost is decomposing organic matter. Composting is nature’s process of decomposition. Fully decomposed matter is called Humus and it’s one of the most important things you can add to your garden and is the basis for all sustainable gardening.

When setting up a compost system we add ‘ingredients’ in layers that break down to create soil. The breaking down process is done by micro-organisms in the earth, plus air and water.

Composting creates rich, healthy soil that can be added to gardens to plant into straight away. It also helps to top up garden beds ready for growing.

Set-up is quick and easy and compost bins can sit directly ‘in the garden’ for maximum benefit.

compost

The benefits of a composting system are –

  • Reduces waste
  • Creates a FREE garden resource
  • Builds up soil level in gardens
  • It’s available as needed
  • It’s quick and easy to make
  • You can grow straight into the compost!

TIP - egg shells, citrus and onions are OK in compost systems!!

Worm Systems

Worm systems are called Vermiculture and they are a system of keeping composting worms in a confined space and adding food scraps, and other ingredients, that they feed off.

vermihutThey actually feed on the bacteria from the decaying matter!

The worms are quite sensitive to high acid food waste, so it’s advisable not to add onions or citrus to the worm farms. A little bit that may accidental be added is ok, but not loads of the scraps!

You can add most fruit and vegetable scraps, tea bags, some coffee grounds, tissues, office paper, receipts and they enjoy a dose of rotted manure too!

Worm Systems produce loads of worm poo and a brown liquid which are both fabulous soil enhancers and plant fertilisers.

inside worm towerThe ‘house’ that the worms live in can be a small purchased ‘worm farm’, an old bathtub or a bucket with the base removed (called a worm tower) can be used to house 1000’s of little workers!

The worm poo, or castings as it’s also known as, is great for adding to poor soil, using when planting seedlings, shrubs or trees and also to sow seeds into…it’s quite versatile!

The liquid is a great liquid fertiliser and used on the foliage and soil around plants.

The benefits of a worm system are –

  • worms!A great soil improver and fertiliser – adds vital nutrients for plants
  • The castings are used for sowing seeds and planting
  • Great to feed plants in pots and containers
  • Liquid is a great fertiliser on all plants – just wash edible plants before eating!!
  • It’s an activator for the compost…it helps the ingredients break down!

Consider having both systems as there’s benefits to having compost AND worm castings available as you need them. Both have similar benefits, but are used in different ways to help your garden thrive.

Looking for guidance in your garden?

Here’s three ways I can support you now!

  1. You’ll find information on many gardening topics, plus steps to grow your plants through our articles and podcasts. Have a look at topics here…
  2. Ask a Question in our Free Facebook Club. It’s also a great place to connect with other gardeners and share your gardening wins.
  3. Join the Gardening Community. This is the one location online to help you with success in the garden! From gardening guides, masterclasses, courses, videos, other resources and our member forum, you’ll connect, learn & grow with confidence. Plus access one-on-one support from me. Find out more here…www.soiltosupper.com/community/

Helping you learn, grow and thrive.

 

© cath manuel 17 february 2016

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