Worm composting and the characteristics of worm castings

Explanation of Characteristics of worm castings provided by our friends at the University of Central Florida

Worm castings is a crumbly, pleasant smelling rich earthy cent complex made particularly attractive by its consistency. Its water holding capacity (it still crumbles with a water content of 75%) comes from the fact that it is a product of worm digestion.

The excretions of the micro-organisms and the micro-organisms themselves act as a type of glue which is capable of swelling, which binds the mineral and organic elements together. The mineral components broken down by the digestion process of the earthworms are turned into large amounts of silica acid. Silica acid is useful to plants as it hardens the upper surface of the leaf (epidermis), and leads to higher resistance against wind, stinging or bloodsucking insects and leaf disease.

The high number and variety of micro-organisms (up to four times as many as in hot rotting compost) inject the soil with soil organisms. The micro-organisms process the plant nutrients in a way that ensures better nutrient absorption. There are various humic acids, proteins and messenger substances in worm biohumus which are particularly good for plant growth.

Difference from hot rotting compost

• Because there is a more drastic reduction in the volume of the source material, a higher concentration of nutrients results
• Worm biohumus is immediately safe for plants (it does not scorch them and it is impossible to overdose them)
• Higher number and variety of micro-organisms, great biodiversity
• Higher amount of silicic acid in a form that is easily absorbed by plants
• Odorless production (it can also be produced in urban areas and because it does not need to be turned fewer dust particles are released into the air)
• More stable crumbling characteristics
• Lower quantities in the application
• Is registered as an organic fertiliser in USA (approved for organic farming)
• A higher sales revenue can be obtained
• More efficient use of space in production
• Best inoculum for activated compost tea
• High amount of humic acid