Vermicomposting is an eco-friendly way to recycle kitchen waste into nutrient-rich compost, perfect for gardening. This guide explains how to create a simple yet effective vermicomposter using a three-tote system.
Materials Needed
- Three durable plastic totes (e.g., Roughneck brand for their sturdiness)
- One lid to cover the system
- Cooler drain (or a similar drainage mechanism)
- Drill with a 1/4-inch bit
- Bricks or blocks to elevate the setup
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Totes
- Drill holes in two of the totes:
- Add 1/4-inch holes across the bottoms to allow worm movement and drainage.
- Drill holes along the upper edges of the totes for aeration.
- Leave the third tote undrilled; it will collect excess liquid.
2. Install the Drainage System
- Use the undrilled tote as the base for collecting worm tea (nutrient-rich liquid fertilizer).
- Install a cooler drain on the recessed side of this tote to easily remove the liquid.
3. Assemble the Vermicomposter
- Stack the two drilled totes on top of the undrilled one.
- The top tote will initially hold the worms, bedding, and food scraps.
- As composting progresses, rotate the totes (more on this below).
4. Introduce the Worms
- Place your composting worms (red wigglers are ideal) into the top tote with their bedding and food scraps.
- Gradually add kitchen scraps, ensuring they are small pieces to make it easier for the worms to consume.
5. Maintenance & Harvesting
- Add food scraps regularly to the top tote. As it fills with worm castings (compost), shift it to the middle position. The middle tote will hold the completed compost while worms migrate upwards to a fresh food supply.
- Empty the finished compost from the bottom tote into your garden.
- Check the drainage tote regularly for worm tea and use it as liquid fertilizer.
6. Elevate the System
- Place the entire system on bricks or blocks to elevate it. This makes drainage easier and keeps the totes accessible.
Tips for Success
- Avoid overfeeding: Add scraps gradually to prevent odors or pest issues.
- Maintain moisture: The compost should be as damp as a wrung-out sponge.
- Monitor temperature: Keep the system in a shaded, well-ventilated area, ideally between 55–77°F (13–25°C).
Creating a homemade vermicomposter is an easy and rewarding way to minimize waste and enrich your garden soil. This three-tote system is practical, cost-effective, and adaptable to suit your needs. Happy composting!