"Steve Burrows" wrote in message
...

Also I wanted to start a wormery. I have an old bin I have drilled lots of
holes in but its the worms that are causing me the problems. I know garden
worms wont do but are worms from the fishing tackle shop any good? Having
looked at the prices online they are a little expensive and I would like
to
buy locally.

Any tips or help on starting a wormery would be appreciated.

Many thanks

Steve


Hi Steve

If you google worm compost or vermicomposting, there are lots of useful
sites. I also use an old dustbin. I don't have holes in it but a tap at
the base and plenty of old crocks for drainage. Then layers of bedding
(shredded newspaper), the usual kitchen scraps/garden waste and some soil
and lime when needed. I also have a second bin with holes in the base that
I use for drying out the compost after I have "harvested" it. I place my
bin on bricks, partly so I can fit old milk containers under the tap to
collect the leachate. This can be used as a liquid feed and I have always
found it to be excellent, although I know some people don't recommend it.

About worms, you want Eisenia - I have Eisenia Foetida, or brandlings. I
really don't know if these can also be used as fishing bait. I got mine
originally from a friend's compost. You don't need many, they breed in no
time provided they get enough food and the right conditions. If you are
anywhere near Sheffield you are welcome to some of my worms, but otherwise
why not try asking around at gardening/recycling places?

Hope this helps,

Eleni.