Question

c) Describe what vermicomposting is. List the materials that should not be placed in a
vermicompost.​

Answer 1

Answer:

Vermicompost (vermi-compost) is the product of the decomposition process using ... Vermicomposting can also be applied for treatment of sewage. ... NC State Extension Publications.

Answer 2

Answer:

Vermicomposting is a type of composting in which certain species of earthworms are used to enhance the process of organic waste conversion and produce a better end-product. It is a mesophilic process utilizing microorganisms and earthworms. Earthworms feeds the organic waste materials and passes it through their digestive system and gives out in a granular form (cocoons) which is known as vermicompost. Vermicomposting is a process based on earthworms and microorganisms, whose joint action provides degradation and detoxification of organic waste as well as conversion into a product to be used for agronomic purposes. This eco-friendly method is cost effective and is the best among other remediation processes.

Vermicompost has the following advantages over chemical fertilizers:

• It restores the microbial population, which includes nitrogen fixers, phosphate solubilizers, etc.,

• Provides major and micro-nutrients to the plants,

• Improves soil texture and water holding capacity of the soil,

• Provides good aeration to the soil, thereby improving root growth and proliferation of beneficial soil microorganisms,

• Decreases the use of pesticides for controlling plant pathogens,

• Improves the structural stability of the soil, thereby preventing soil erosion,

• Enhances the quality of grains/fruits due to increased sugar content.

What  materials should not be placed in vermicompost:

• Lemon, lime, orange or other citrus peels and juice (in excess this will make the soil too acidic)
• Onions and garlic (a good rule of thumb is if it makes you smell, it makes your worm bin smell)
• Meat, fats, grease, bones or oils (no butter, lard, stocks, soups, etc)
• Plastics and plastic coated paper (like glossy magazines)
• Stickers, including veggie stickers (remove stamps from envelopes)
• Bread or yeast products (no crackers or cakes)
• Salt, pepper and other spices
• Milk, dairy or dairy products
• Cat or dog feces
• Diseased or infested plants

• Treated wood products

Explanation: