The Earthworm Lawn and Garden

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Using a shovel or pitchfork, carefully remove part of the pile's outer layer, which will consist of undigested organic material, most of the active earthworms and dirt. Uncover only as much "worm soil" as you can use at any given time, to avoid subjecting worms needlessly to cold or light. Place the removed material on the ground nearby, add a thin layer of fresh organic matter and dirt, and - voila - you've started next year's worm pile. Continue to build this new pile with kitchen scraps and whatever organic material is left over after you mulch your garden.

With the outer layer removed from your existing pile, you'll be able to see the inner soil, made up of digested and undigested organic material, dirt, earthworms and earthworm eggs. Use this worm soil just as you would potting soil.

Planting with Worm Soil

You can use worm soil to grow either seeds or started plants. For seeds, dig a trench large enough to accommodate the expected root balls, put in a layer of worm soil, add the seeds, then cover with your garden soil. After the seeds have begun to sprout, add a layer of grass mulch.

For started plants, dig holes slightly larger than the anticipated full-grown root balls. Fill the holes with worm soil, then plant your plants. Mulch with a fresh layer of grass clippings.

It's best to dig trenches and holes before opening the worm pile, since the worm soil, which contains live worms and eggs, should be returned to a warm, moist, dark environment as quickly as possible.

I have tried to use worm soil as a side dressing for existing plants ...with mixed results. The plants saw some improvement, but not enough to warrant repeating the experiment.

Continue to mulch your rows throughout the growing season with grass clippings, leaves and other yard wastes, ensuring your garden worms a steady supply of food. Your worms will thank you with the best soil your plants have ever known.

Read more GARDENING articles at www.motherearthnews.com

Related info:
Using Worm Soil to Advantage

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