Do you struggle to grow healthy and thriving garden and potted plants?
At The Heirloom Farmer we use Worm Poo (worm castings) to grow thriving plants and an abundant garden!
We LOVE how our plants (and soil health) respond to the worm castings, so we’ve made them available to you!
Read below to learn more about worm castings, how they can help support your garden and plant growing goals.
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Walter’s worm casting facts!
What are worm castings?
Worm castings are worm poo. Sounds a bit gross, but it’s actually super amazing! You may also hear it called vermicast or vermicompost. The worm poo is created when worms digest food scraps and organic matter. In our case, the worms are Red Wigglers and we feed them food scraps and other waste materials to create an eco friendly system.
Why should you use worm castings?
Plant Nutrition
1. Rich in Nutrients – Worm castings contain essential plant nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (NPK), along with trace minerals like calcium, magnesium, and iron.
2. Slow-Release – Nutrients in castings are released slowly, making them available to plants over time without the risk of burning them.
3. Microbial Boost – They are packed with beneficial microbes that can improve soil health and help plants absorb nutrients more efficiently.
Soil Health & Plant Growth
1. Improves Soil Structure – Castings enhance soil aeration, water retention, and drainage, making the soil more fertile.
2. Plant Resilience – Beneficial bacteria and fungi in worm castings can help make plants more resilient.
3. Encourages Root Growth – The humic acid in worm castings stimulates root development and overall plant health.
Eco-Friendly & Sustainable
1. All Natural – Worm castings are environmentally friendly.
2. Reduces Waste – Vermicomposting helps recycle food scraps and organic waste into valuable fertilizer.
3. Odor-Free – Unlike synthetic fertilizers, worm castings have a mild, earthy smell.
Walter’s casting storage instructions!
Storing Worm Castings
To maintain the beneficial bacteria, fungi, and microbes and nutrient content of worm castings, follow these storage guidelines:
1. Use a Breathable Container – Store worm castings in the bag you purchased them in, a plastic bin with ventilation holes, or a breathable bucket to maintain air circulation.
2. Keep Them Slightly Moist – Worm castings should be damp, like a wrung-out sponge. If they dry out, mist them lightly with water to rehydrate.
3. Store in a Cool, Dark Place – Avoid direct sunlight and excessive heat, which can kill beneficial microbes. A basement, garage, or shaded shed works well.
4. Avoid Sealing Them Completely – A completely airtight container can lead to anaerobic conditions, which can cause bad odors and loss of beneficial bacteria.
5. Use Within 6-12 Months – While castings don’t spoil, they are most effective when fresh because microbial activity declines over time.