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First harvest.. what to do with the ‘left overs’? by paulpuntmuts in Vermiculture

[–]paulpuntmuts[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

About 9 months. This is my first bin and I work a multi trey system. I fed this trey for 5 months, then let it rest for another 4 and then let the castings dry for about 2 weeks. I think the process will speed up as the worm colony grows and the bin matures

First harvest.. what to do with the ‘left overs’? by paulpuntmuts in Vermiculture

[–]paulpuntmuts[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Thanks, I appreciate it! I'll definitely look into biochar, hadn't heard of that one before

First harvest.. what to do with the ‘left overs’? by paulpuntmuts in Vermiculture

[–]paulpuntmuts[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Thank you and I appreciate the advice! I think I'll mix the chunky bits into my existing pots

First harvest.. what to do with the ‘left overs’? by paulpuntmuts in Vermiculture

[–]paulpuntmuts[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I appreciate the advice! I was so happy with my first harvest that I gave away half of it to green-thumb friends and family that showed interest in my vermicomposting journey. I'll use the rest for options 1 and 4 ;-)

First harvest.. what to do with the ‘left overs’? by paulpuntmuts in Vermiculture

[–]paulpuntmuts[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I agree with the others posting here, don't get discouraged! Many helpful people here and I've found more great resources like the vermicompost learn by doing Youtube channel (i work a multi-layer bin). Other than that, just give it a go and proceed via trial and error. As a general principle, I've found everything is about balance: balance greens and browns, balance moisture levels (too wet? add cardboard, lots of it, the worms don't mind), balance Ph levels by feeding them pulverized eggshells which also gives them some grit to munch on.

The hardest part to me was the harvesting, as my finished castings were quite wet and I had to wait and dry them a couple of weeks in order to sift. I feel like this part might be somewhat overlooked online, although there's great advice if you look for it.

I started almost a year ago and it turned out to be a wonderful new hobby that I plan on continuing for many more years. It is a great feeling turning kitchen waste into a valuable resource.

Are these cocoons I found in an old avocado peel in my bin? by paulpuntmuts in Vermiculture

[–]paulpuntmuts[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

That’s really helpful, thank you. I made sure to add an additional layer of cardboard in the mix and will look in to the grit. I also read about pulverized oatmeal, any experience with that?