subject: Worm Castings Are A Great Natural Fertilizer [print this page] People all around the world have been making use of worm castings, or vermicast, for several years. Worms are tiny recycling centers, ridding the Earth of waste while simultaneously forming a new and useful product. Concern for our planet and for the future of our children has prompted many businesses, families, and individuals to forego the use of handy, but toxic solutions, in favor of the more natural remedies employed by our ancestors. Vermicast is one such remedy, and is one of the most versatile and effective substances around.
Organic worm castings makes an unrivaled fertilizer thanks to the changes that occur during the digestive process. During digestion, many transformations take place: whatever was eaten takes on the consistency of finely ground coffee beans, calcium carbonate is secreted, and armies of enzymes and good bacteria finish up the process, leaving us with a soft, crumbly substance that is simply loaded with minerals, microbes, and helpful bacteria. This digestive process is responsible for turning organic matter into a food that is easily absorbed by plants. This ready absorption yields bigger, better tasting, and more beautiful plants than any chemical fertilizer. Chemicals often "burn" plants, but worm castings will never do that, no matter how much is used.
Because vermicast has such a fluffy texture, pH, mineral content, and holds moisture longer than ordinary compost, it makes an effective conditioner when added to "bad" soil. Inorganic amendments, although they may act quickly, will only do further damage in the long run. Worm compost may also be used as a mulch to help keep weeds down, water in, and to look pretty while doing so.
This organic material is great for planting seeds and bulbs. Just as babies need a healthy start to avoid later problems, so do plants, and there is no more natural of a beginning than worm castings. Surrounding seeds and bulbs with it will guarantee their continued good health. Using vermicast will also help to minimize trauma on an older plant that is being transferred. Transfers need stabilization, nutrition, and lots of tender loving care, and "black gold" as it's sometimes called, is just what the doctor ordered.
With the sale of green products on the rise, it's fairly easy to find and purchase worm castings, but they can also be made at home. Home composting is inexpensive and easy. Just provide the worms with a home, and they will do all of the work.
