Several weeks back I planted six seeds, two in pure worm castings, two in vermicompost or worm compost as I call it (in my case, part manure, part castings), and two in off-the-shelf potting soil. Now, it should be noted that I have a notoriously brown thumb, but in this case I really did make an effort to check on the seedlings daily to make sure they had enough water, enough light, no cats eating them, and enough room to grow.
Initially all six seeds sprouted and seemed to be growing well. At the beginning the two seeds that were planted in pure worm castings were far outgrowing the other four, especially as far as how high they were growing. The seeds planted in the worm compost mix were growing steadily. The seeds planted in the potting soil were growing slowly. After another week, though, I was surprised to find that the seeds planted in the worm castings were looking a little frail. This was promptly followed by one of them dying. Shortly after, one of the seedlings in the potting soil died.
Now, a week later, the other seedling in the pure worm castings has perished. However, the two seedlings that are in the worm compost mix are thriving and much bigger and fuller than any of the other seedlings became (before they croaked). I know I don't have comparison pictures, but you'll just have to trust me on this.
When this worm compost experiment started I was relatively certain that the seeds planted in the worm castings would be the biggest and healthiest of the lot. Live and learn. It appears that it is unwise to plant directly into pure worm castings, and that it is best to mix castings or worm compost in with whatever soil you are using. In the case of the thriving seedlings, the mixture was about half worm castings half manure and soil.
Pictured you can see all six attempts, with the two worm compost mixture seedlings in the center. The second picture is a direct comparison (the only surviving ones) between worm compost and potting soil. The worm compost seedling is huge by comparison and obviously much healthier.
Good worming!
Comment on DIY Gardening: How to Build a Worm Compost Bin by linda ... - Impressed, surprized & tickled pink! This is my 1st visit & won’t be my last! Joyous thanks to all.
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