[Date Prev][Date Next][Thread Prev][Thread Next][Date Index][Thread Index]

Re: [compost_tea] vermicastings versus vermicompost



I guess we could go back to using ammonium nitrate and malathion....8~0
Steve Bridges
----- Original Message -----
Sent: Thursday, May 15, 2003 7:13 PM
Subject: Re: [compost_tea] vermicastings versus vermicompost

 Here is one ....

In summary - keep on or start worm farming, but be aware that there are pros and cons to using castings. With a bit of knowledge and observation you can arrive at a superlative result in the end!

A caution: As said above, raw organic matter is full of pathogens. Vermicompost is not pure worm castings, i.e. it does have a component of unbroken down organic matter. Be careful handling this material since disturbing it will generate clouds of airborne fungal spores and toxic bacteria, which can give you what?s called organic dust toxic syndrome (ODTS). ODTS features symptoms such as gastrointestinal upsets, influenza type symptoms and irritation to the airways.[4] You?ll be more likely to have problems in summertime, when everything is dustier, so wearing a dust mask is recommended.[5]

References

[1] Appelhof, Mary, Worms eat my garbage, Flower Press, Michigan USA 1982, p.68

[2] Ibid

[3] Finola, M., Rodriguez C., Beoletto, V. "Gastrointestinal bacteriology of the earthworm Eisenia foetida grown in composted broiler litter." Rev Argent Microbiol 1995 Oct-Dec; 27(4):210-3. Abstract in Medline, PMID 8850134

[4] Poulsen OM, Breum NO, Ebbehoj N, et al. "Sorting and recycling of domestic waste. Review of occupational health problems and their possible causes." Sci Total Environ 1995 May 19; 168(1):33-56. Abstract in Medline, PMID 7610383

[5] Ivens UI, Ebbehoj N, Poulsen OM, Skov T. "Season, equipment, and job function related to gastrointestinal problems in waste collectors." Occup Environ Med 1997 Dec;54(12):861-7. Abstract in Medline, PMID 947089

 



To unsubscribe from this group, send an email to:
compost_tea-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com



Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to the Yahoo! Terms of Service.

Yahoo! Groups Sponsor
ADVERTISEMENT
Click Here!

To unsubscribe from this group, send an email to:
compost_tea-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com



Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to the Yahoo! Terms of Service.