Vermi-composting as source of organic fertilizer

Vermicomposting is composting with worms.  The end product called castings are full of beneficial microbes and nutrients.  Vermi-composting is important to reduce wastes, increases soil fertility and assures optimum production.  It is a fungal fertilizer that is environment-friendly compared to other kinds of fertilizer.  Excess worms can be utilized as feeds to poultry and fishes called vermimeal.

Steps in Vermicompost Production

1. Select suitable site that is shaded, flood-free and accessible to source of compost materials;
2. Prepare beds with 5 x 2 x .2 meters measurement; uncemented hollow blocks as siding with uncovered bottoms; and provide shade for protection from rain and direct sunlights;
3. Gather composting materials like farm, garden or kitchen wastes (rice straw, animal manure and vegetable trimmings and fruit peelings;
4. Prepare the materials.  Pulverize manure, shred freshly cut grass in 1 to 2.5 cm.  C/N ratio should be 25-35 (e.g. 75% shredded fresh grass + 25% fresh kakawate).  Add water to materials that have at least less than 60% moiture depending on the dryness of the materials.  Thoroughly saturate with water.  Place the materials in the prepared beds measuring 1 x 1 meter or larger.  Cover with plastic sheets to start anaerobic process for one to two weeks;
5.  Stock the worms.  One kilo of earthworms (about 1,000 pcs) for every 1 square meter of vermibed that contains 100-200 kilos of materials;
6. Maintain the beds.  Maintain at least 60% moiture level.  Place screen to protect the earthworm from predators.
7. Harvest the vermicompost.  Harvest within 30-45 days.  Separate the vermi from the vermi compost by handpicking or by sieving with a screen;
8. Properly pack vermicompost.  Seal and store in cool dry place.