Bed Method:This is an easy method in which beds of organic matter are prepared.
Vermicomposting is the scientific method of making compost, by using earthworms. They are commonly found living in soil, One of the best worm species would be the red wiggler worms (also known as the Eisenia Fetida). They have been recognized as the worm specie that can eat as much as half of its weight on a daily basis. Earthworms feed on the organic waste materials and give out excreta in the form of “vermicasts” that are rich in nitrates and minerals such as phosphorus, magnesium, calcium and potassium. These are used as fertilizers and maintain soil quality.
Bed Method:This is an easy method in which beds of organic matter are prepared.
Pit Method:In this method, the organic matter is collected in cemented pits. However, this method is not prominent as it involves problems of poor aeration and waterlogging.
1.6 per cent of Nitrogen.
0.7 per cent of Phosphorus.
0.8 per cent of Potassium.
0.5 per cent of Calcium.
0.2 per cent of Magnesium.
175 ppm of Iron.
96.5 ppm of Manganese.
24.5 ppm of Zinc.
Water
Cow dung
Thatch Roof
Soil or Sand
Gunny bags
175 ppm of Iron.
Earthworms
Weed biomass
A large bin (plastic or cemented tank)
Dry straw and leaves collected from paddy fields
Biodegradable wastes collected from fields and kitchen
To prepare compost, either a plastic or a concrete tank can be used. The size of the tank depends upon the availability of raw materials.
Collect the biomass and place it under the sun for about 8-12 days. Now chop it to the required size using the cutter.
Prepare a cow dung slurry and sprinkle it on the heap for quick decomposition.
Add a layer (2 – 3 inch) of soil or bhusa at the bottom of the tank/platform.
Now prepare fine bedding by adding partially decomposed(15 days) cow dung, dried leaves and other biodegradable wastes collected from fields and kitchen. Distribute them evenly on the layer.
Continue adding both the chopped bio-waste and partially decomposed cow dung layer-wise into the tank up to a depth of 0.5-1.5 ft.
After adding all the bio-wastes, release the earthworm species over the mixture and cover the compost mixture with dry straw,rice bhusa, or gunny bags.
Sprinkle water on a regular basis to maintain the moisture content of the compost.
Cover the tank with a thatch roof to prevent the entry of ants, lizards, mouse, snakes, etc. and protect the compost from rainwater and direct sunshine.
Have a frequent check to avoid the compost from overheating. Maintain proper moisture and temperature.
After the 24th day, around 4000 to 5000 new worms are introduced and the entire raw material is turned into the vermicomposting process.
