Orlando Vermitechnology: Soil Amendments, Vermicomposting, Black Worm Castings

Black worm castings contain an incredibly high concentrated amounts of bacteria and fungus, vital for healthy soil. In just one cubic inch of worm castings there are over 1.5 billion bacteria and fungus. Scientific research has shown black castings is benefiting people in science, soil remediation, medicine and plant stimulation. Even will all of todays modern advances, science cannot culture everything found in worm castings.

Microorganisms have been depleted from most of our soil through the use of chemical fertilizers, pesticides, and herbicides. Our soil is a breathing, living and digesting organism whose health depends on the population of microorganism.

Vermitechnology has many organic products, a great alternative to the ill-effects of chemical fertilizers and pesticides.

Contact Vermitechnology, we are proud to offer only the best products at affordable prices.

Some interesting worm facts from our friends at the North Carolina State University Cooperative Extension. 

shutterstock_37842532What is vermicomposting?

Earthworms and microorganisms convert organic materials to a beneficial soil amendment.

Can any type of earthworm be used for vermicomposting?

Only epigeic species are suitable for vermicomposting.

Aren’t all earthworms the same?

No, there are over 6,000 species of earthworms, ranging in size from half an inch to 22 feet long.

What species of earthworms are used for vermicomposting?

Only seven species have been identified as suitable for vermicomposting. One species, Eisenia fetida, is used by most people throughout the world. Eisenia fetida is commonly called Red Wiggler, in addition to several other common names.

What is the difference between vermiculture and vermicomposting? 

Vermiculture is the process of breeding worms. Growers usually pay for their worm feed, and the worm castings (manure) are often considered a waste product. Vermicomposting is the process of turning organic debris into vermicompost. Operators use a wider variety of feedstocks and make money on tipping fees and sales of vermicompost. The earthworm population usually remains stable.

How do earthworms eat?

They have tiny mouths and no teeth, so earthworms eat differently than you and I. An earthworm will push its pharynx (throat) out, grab microorganisms and little bits of organic matter, and pull them into its mouth. The food is coated with saliva, pushed down the esophagus into the crop and on to the gizzard, where it is crushed and ground apart. Next, it moves into the intestine, where food is broken down more by digestive enzymes. Some of the food is passed into the bloodstream for use by the earthworm and the rest passes out the anus as castings (worm poop).