| Earthworms are among the most important non-microscopic
soil dwellers. Some kinds live in decaying litter on the forest floor,
while others burrow deep into the soil and mineral substrates. |
|
| Surface dwellers |
| Red wigglers and other composting
worms eat dead leaves and organic wastes. If you place a 1-inch layer
of organic matter on the surface of some loose soil, a healthy population
of red wigglers can completely digest it in a few months. |
| Such worms secrete calcium
carbonate, a substance which can help neutralize the pH of soil that is
too acid or too alkaline. They also spread their own manure,
which is called vermicompost. This rich humus contains plant growth
hormones and important micronutrients. It’s an excellent soil conditioner! |
| Each year, a population
of 5 red wigglers per cubic foot can produce more than 17 pounds of vermicompost
per 100 square feet of garden. A well-managed area can
easily support 25 red wigglers per cubic foot, producing at least 85 pounds
of vermicompost each year. |
|
| Earthmovers |
| Nightcrawlers and other
earthmovers bring up rich minerals from deep within the subsoil.
Some types may contribute as much as 4 to 8 pounds of soil per 100 square
feet of garden each year. |
| Such worms aerate soil by
rearranging and loosening it. This process helps plant roots get
air and water, as well as promoting the growth of beneficial microorganisms.
Worm burrows also help smaller organisms reach deeper soil levels. |
| A cubic yard of soil may
contain as many as 1,200 worm burrows, which help provide channels for
plant roots. Soybean roots may follow worm burrows for as much as
4 to 5 feet! |
|
|
|
Let's Talk About
Vermicomposting
|