What is vermicomposting?
Vermicomposting is a biotechnological process whereby earthworms convert waste materials to a nutrient rich material. These earthworms consume organic waste and reduce the volume by 40-60%. The California Red worm (Eisenia fetida) has been introduced in Guyana and has been used in vermicomposting bins to breakdown fresh cow manure at the National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI).

Vermicompost is a peat like material rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, micronutrients, plant growth hormones, enzymes and various soil microbes. Also, vermicompost has a low carbon-to-nitrogen ratio (C:N ratio) and is highly porous with a high water holding capacity, containing various plant nutrients that can be readily absorbed by plants. Additionally, it improves crop yield by supplying balanced nutrients to the plant roots, increases the organic matter content of the soil which helps to stimulate plant growth.

What is NAREI’s current vermicomposting production?
A typical vermicompost bin at NAREI has an approximate area of 6.0 m2, with each bin holding approximately 300 kg of fresh cow manure, 7 kg dried leaves and 15 kg dried grass, producing vermicompost every two to three months. During this period an average of 450 kg of vermicompost is produced when the four bins are harvested. A farmer could utilize 1kg of the vermicompost per plant.

How do I get started?
Fresh cow manure should be obtained and placed into an appropriate worm bin to a depth of 6-10”. On this a thin layer of dried leaves is placed. The California Red worms are then placed on this layer, followed by a layer of dried grass. The bin should be continually monitored and watered every other day, or as required. When all the cow manure is converted to vermicompost, a process that usually takes two to three months, the bin should be emptied and refilled with fresh cow manure. It should be noted that an appropriate cover/ shed be used for a worm bin to prevent direct exposure to sunlight and other environmental factors.

Possible uses for vermicompost:
• As a seed starting boost that helps support the young plants’ growth;
• As a form of organic fertilizer, thereby reducing the need for chemical fertilizers;
• As a soil amendment.

What are the benefits of using vermicompost?
• Enhances plant growth, suppresses disease in plants, increases porosity and microbial activity in soil and improves water retention and aeration;
• Decreases the amount of waste going to landfills and in so doing benefits the environment;
• Lends support to the quest in the greening of Guyana’s agricultural sector.

What are the nutrients vermicompost provides?