A new edition of the definitive guide to vermicomposting--a process using redworms to recycle human food waste into nutrient-rich fertilizer for plants. Author Mary Appelhof provides complete illustrated instructions on setting up and maintaining small-scale worm composting systems. Internationally recognized as an authority on vermicomposting, Appelhof has worked with worms for over three decades.

Topics include: bin types, worm species, reproduction, care and feeding of worms, harvesting, and how to make the finished product of potting soil. You have smelly organic kitchen garbage, and you want great fertilizer for your garden. What else besides composting with your muscles can accomplish this transformation? Worms can. Their castings are prized fertilizer, and they will live in an old box by the back door (or in the basement during a freezing winter when compost heaps stop working).

This book tells you how. Any vegetable waste that you generate during food preparation can be used.... Spoiled food from the refrigerator, such as baked beans, moldy cottage cheese, and leftover casserole also can go into a worm bin ... enhancing the texture of the final vermicompost. Tea leaves, and even tea bags and coffee filters are suitable.