![]() Worm castings have an NPK rating of 1-0-0 because the slow release value of the nutrients doesn’t count for an NPK rating. The higher the number, the higher the concentration of that nutrient. Each of the three are represented by a number. And Potassium helps the plant to function well. Phosphorus relates to the productivity of the plant – its root system, flowers, and fruit. Nitrogen is connected to the foliage of the plant – how big and bushy the plant and leaves will grow. This is a means of rating synthetic fertilizers for their uses. What is the NPK of worm castings?įertilizers are measured by NPK: nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Some scientists will challenge the efficacy of worm castings, because it does not meet the standard NPK rating for fertilizers. The alternative to paying for worm castings is to farm your own.ĭisadvantages to farming your own worms might be off-odors if your vermiculture isn’t balanced properly and the time and maintenance to care for your worm farm. However, if you use large amounts of worm castings, it could get pricey. You really can’t make mistakes with using worm castings. There are no major disadvantages to using worm castings because it is an organic fertilizer that will not burn or injure your plants. You’ll have the benefits of increased soil health, and less waste. Worm castings will improve your soil, and take the place of purchasing extra potting soil, fertilizer, and other soil amendments that can get pricey.Īlso, the food you feed your worms is that much less food waste that will go into a landfill. Actually, smelling worm castings smells like fresh earth, like you might find on the forest floor or right after a summer rain. It certainly doesn’t smell like manure at all. Surprisingly, worm castings have no bad odor. You just can’t overdo it with worm castings. ![]() This means all of the nutrients are released slowly and won’t burn the plants. This mucus coats the castings, giving it a sort of time-release delay. As the worms digest the compost matter, they secrete a mucus around it. The pH of worm castings is neutral, or 7. Also known as vermicompost, this matter contains calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, and nitrates, all of which are essential to plant health and growth. The bacteria in the worm castings will continue to work in the soil, transforming the soil as well. In other words, worm castings are worm manure that contain an amazing amount of plant nutrition, beneficial bacteria, and other substances that will greatly improve your soil and nourish your plants. The castings are rich in water-soluble plant nutrients, and contain more than 50% more humus than what is normally found in topsoil. Castings contain a highly active biological mixture of bacteria, enzymes, remnants of plant matter and animal manure, as well as earthworm cocoons (while damp).
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