Vermicomposting uses various species of earthworms to enhance composting organic waste materials for a better end product. The end product is called vermicompost.
Prepare a vermicompost bed measuring 1m wide and 5m length. Add your organic waste materials. Water the bed. Keep it moist but not too wet. Check regularly. Add 1kg of earthworms, African night crawlers in each bed. Earthworms consume the organic waste material and pass it through the digestive system. This gives out granular foam castings known as vermicompost.
Measures and precautions
Earthworms like dark conditions. Put a cover on top of the bed but ensure a good aeration. You may use sacks or any other available materials in your area. Avoid using plastic sheets as it may trap heat and gas. You can make a small setup with used basin. This is applicable for a small backyard garden.
Avoid oily materials and wastes that can attract ants. Check the moisture regularly. Dry condition will kill the worms while water logged condition will drive them away. It is ready to harvest after one month
Harvesting and usage
Start harvesting from the top of the bed. Sieve the harvested vermicast to separate the earthworms & undecomposed materials included during harvest. Put back the residue to the vermicompost pit.
It can be used immediately or stored for next fertilization activity. Be sure to air dry it first before storage. It contains a good amount of macro and micro nutrients that are needed by plants. It can be used as a mix for seedling medium, base of application during land preparation or as side dress.
