By Mindy McIntosh-Shetter

As an avid gardener, I am always looking for ways to use my abundant supply of organic material.

My compost bins are full and it is against my nature to throw away such wonderful material that could be turned into “Black Gold.”

So this year I decided to do something about it and that was to try my hand at worm farming or vermicomposting.

I did not jump into this with a light heart. I knew that my worms would have to be taken care of just like my rabbit, livestock or any type of pet. So knowing all the facts and responsibilities, I jumped in, hand first into the project.

The first challenge I had was find a container that I already had. I am trying to reduce my consumerism and in doing so wanted to reuse or repurpose something. As I searched my supplies, I discovered Read the rest of this entry »

By Vanessa Richins

Hopefully the thought of worms under your sink doesn’t make you cringe.

One of the easiest ways for an urban gardener to compost is with a worm compost bin under the kitchen sink.

It can also be kept in the basement or cellar. Since it is indoors, worm compost can be made at any time of the year, regardless of cold and snow outside. The optimum temperature is 72 degrees Fahrenheit, but it can still work down to about 40 degrees if necessary.

Worm composting – properly known as vermiculture – is a way you can get compost faster than traditional composting. You can use regular earthworms and redworms, though Read the rest of this entry »