top dressing with worm castings

Top dress each plant with 1/4 cup worm castings every two weeks. Add 1/2" to 1" earthworm castings to surface of the soil. Water and repeat every 3 to 4 months.

What is the best way to use worm castings?

If you hoe a layer of barren soil, add a layer of Worm Castings and give it some water, you will be surprised at the growth of your first season's plants. Sprinkle Worm Castings around the base of plants or lightly dig it in, and then add water. They can also be sprinkled on a large scale with a spreader.

Are worm castings a complete fertilizer?

Worm castings are not a “complete” fertilizer for certain plants. And growth of some plants can be inhibited by some salts. Acid-loving plants will also not do well in the pH of 7-8 range of earthworm castings. The solution to these issues would be to mix the castings with another potting material.

How often should I use worm castings?

For Compost Bins

Apply a 1/8- to 1/4-inch layer of earthworm castings between each layer of compost materials (i.e., layer castings as you build your compost pile). Enrich your bin with fresh castings every two to three months.

Are worm castings poop?

Worm castings are an organic form of fertilizer produced from earthworms. Also known as vermicast, worm castings manure is essentially earthworm waste, otherwise known as worm poo. As these creatures eat through compost, their waste creates an optimal soil enricher.

What can I use instead of worm castings?

Well-Known Member. Best substitute for worm castings is plain old compost... This should be available just about anywhere in the world.

Is worm castings better than compost?

Because worm castings contain high levels of nutrients and are beneficial for plant hydration and aeration, they're a great choice for smaller-scale vegetable gardens. However, worm castings can vary quite a bit in quality, and they are usually more expensive than compost and other soil additives.

Can you put worm castings on top of soil?

Refresh the potting soil by adding a small amount of worm castings to the top of the soil monthly throughout the growing season. Don't worry if you add a little extra, unlike chemical fertilizers, worm castings won't harm your plants. Worm casting tea is made by steeping worm castings in water.

What is the NPK of worm castings?

Analysis of earthworm castings reveals that they are rich in iron, sulfur, calcium, nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium (NPK rating: 5.5.

How long do worm castings last in soil?

How long do worm castings last? Worm castings can last up to 6 months – and sometimes longer – depending on the method of storage.

Can worm castings go bad?

They do not go bad or expire. In fact, they get better with time. Worm Castings become moist or dry based on the surrounding humidity. You can rehydrate by misting with water.

What is worm poop called?

The technical word for worm poop is castings, and the composting method is called vermiculture, or vermicomposting.

Can you start seeds in worm castings?

Although there are many commercial seed-starting mixes available with slow release fertilizers, making your own great organic mix at home is simple. The ingredient that made all of the difference – worm castings! Yep, it really is that simple. And does it ever work like magic to grow amazing plants from seed!

Why do I see worms in my poop?

One way to become infected with intestinal worms is eating undercooked meat from an infected animal, such as a cow, pig, or fish. Other possible causes leading to intestinal worm infection include: consumption of contaminated water.

How do you identify worm castings?

5 Signs Your Vermicompost is Finished and Ready to Harvest

Deep, Dark Brown Color. The majority of your vermicompost has that deep, rich color. ...
Uniform Texture. Vermicompost that needs to be harvested will have a uniform texture throughout. ...
Worm Reproduction Slows. ...
Small Worm Size. ...
Flat, Felt-Like Surface.

How do you get worms out of castings?

Using two hands (if you don't like getting your hands dirty, wear gloves) gather castings from the mound and place them in a bucket. Use your fingers to sift through the castings as it is likely there will still be stray worms in there. If you come across any worms, just pop them back in the farm.

How much does worm castings sell for?

10/pound if you buy in bulk, or as high as $3/pound if you buy in small bags. For high-end worm castings made by earthworms eating a controlled diet, you might pay as little as $. 18/pound if you buy in bulk, or as much as $5/pound if you buy in small bags.

Do worm castings attract bugs?

According to recent studies, applying earthworm castings to the soil around your plants increases the production of a certain enzyme chitinase. This enzyme is a degrader of chitin, the substance that comprises the exo-skeletons of most insects. When used properly, worm casting acts as a natural insect repellant.

Why is worm tea so good?

Worm tea contains a higher count of good bacteria. Bacteria puts nitrogen back to the soil; making it available for plants to absorb. Manure and worm castings are slow to release nutrients. Liquid fertilizer makes nutrients immediately available for plants to absorb.

How do you amend soil with worm castings?

Soil Amendment

So, dig 2″ to 4″ down and throw in the finished compost. Mix the soil and worm castings. Break up the larger lumps. Using an amendment while breaking up the soil adds air pockets and nutrients.

Should I put worms in my compost?

Do I need to add worms to my compost pile? You do not need to add worms to your compost pile. Outside, composting happens with and without the help of earthworms. Worms will usually find their own way to a compost pile.