How to compost with worms 101

The Nature Center at Shaker Lakes.

September 29th. 6pm

Learn how to divert your organic trash from the landfill with a simple process.

In our hands-on workshop we demonstrate what vermicomposting is and makes it a unique method of composting. We are inviting our neighbors from Cleveland Heights, Shaker Heights and the surrounding cities to come join us in a celebration of organic waste and microorganisms. 

Currently, on average 1/3 of our regular trash is compostable and should not end up in a landfill. Recycling organic materials is just as important as recycling other resources like plastic or glass.

Vermicomposting can be done right in your backyard, basement, or even apartment. The worms help to break down your food scraps and other organic waste and the worms do all the heavy lifting for you.

A worm bin can be very easy to maintain and does not require a lot of work on your end. This workshop demonstrates how to take care of the worms and how to set up a smooth process in your own home. We will talk about common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

Let’s look at a flow-through worm bin and how it makes managing the composting process a breeze.

If we have time left after answering your questions about your individual context, we will also take a look at a vermicast sample under the microscope.

With a simple process in place, you can easily compost leftovers, food and vegetable scraps, coffee grounds, and other organic matter.

Worms are only one component of the composting process. Additionally, hidden to our eyes, there are billions of microbes working on that same process. We can see them with a microscope and looking at this microcosm is truly fascinating.

The microorganisms are also what makes finished vermicompost a wonderful garden amendment. Using vermicastings for house plants, vegetables, and/or flowers has big advantages to using chemical fertilizers.

Vermicomposting is an upcycling process: you are turning organic waste into a stable form of humus that is totally safe to apply anywhere on your property.

Even if you aren’t a gardener, you will end up with a desirable, safe, and odorless product.

More information can be found on www.wormworkers.com and on instagram @wormworkers

About Tim Steckel

An immigrant compost and soil-microbe enthusiast living in Cleveland Heights. His initiative, Worm Workers, is inspiring neighbors in Cleveland Heights to start composting their organic waste stream. He is inviting his community to use vermicompost and encourages every household to start their own process. He shares composting knowledge and offers answers and a support system.