Hi all,
I could use some feedback and help testing on a new vermicompost bin suitab=
le for kitchen use.
Link to page with pics of system -
http://www.TheEarthProject.org/id58.htm
The system involves using a mesh filter bag inside a regular garbage bin, a=
vailable at any paint store (5 gallon paint strainer mesh -apx. 70 mesh, un=
der $4.00 at paint stores) to hold the worms. The mesh bag filled with the=
worms and vermicompost can then be used as a straining bag to produce an e=
xtract. The bag with worm intact is used like a large tea bag dipping it i=
n and out of water (chlorine free) to dislodge the organisms. The worms do=
n't seem to be affected by the bath, actually seem to like it. The resulti=
ng extract can be used directly or in an AACT process. The same bin can be =
used for the extract process. After draining (clip the bag on the side to =
drain), I continue the regular system of adding food scraps to the bin. Ha=
ving un-processed food in the bag doesn't seem to affect the result, the me=
sh strains out the unprocessed food)
I have been experimenting with one stlye of the Simple Human garbage can, b=
ut the 5 gallon or 2 gallon bags fit most of their styles. The mesh bags al=
so work with a regular 5 gallon bucket, and should work with most kitchen g=
arbage containers. The mesh bags can be bought in packages of 25 for under=
$1.00 each.
I have been monitoring the process with a microscope, and so far things loo=
k good. I was testing the liquid in the bottom of the bin for microorganis=
ms, and found that I could prevent the liquid from going anaerobic and smel=
ly by adding lactobacteria (some of the liquid from my yoghurt container - =
basically making it into EM) it stops the smell.
The website www.TheEarthProject.org has images of the new design and proce=
ss, as well as useful information on soil restoration. It is still somewhat=
under construction, but worth keeping an eye on as it grows. These projec=
ts are being done with Elaine Ingham under the umbrella of The Sustainable =
Studies Institute and this website with eventually be merged with the SSI s=
ite.
Feedback and independent testing would be appreciated.....
Gail Swithenbank
Sustainable Studies Institute
link to page -
http://www.TheEarthProject.org/id58.htm
Received on Sat Mar 05 2011 - 20:53:25 EST