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What is VermiCompost?The definition from wikipedia states: Vermicompost (also called worm compost, vermicast, worm castings, worm humus or worm manure) is the end product of the breakdown of organic matter by some species of earthworm. Vermicompost is literally THE BEST nutrient rich, organic fertilizer and soil conditioner. Here are a few definitions important to the process of vermicomposting:Aerobic - living or occurring in the presence of oxygen Aerobic Decomposition - the oxidation of organic matter into carbon dioxide and water by microorganisms in the presence of air. Anaerobic - living or occurring in the absence of oxygen as in anaerobic respiration. Anaerobic respiration - a form of respiration in the absence of oxygen, whereby organisms convert matter into methane gas, alcohols or other organic compounds and carbon dioxide. Cocoon - Fertilized worm eggs or egg cases. Compost - the product resulting from the controlled biological decomposition of organic wastes, that have been sanitized and stabilized to a degree which is potentially beneficial to plant growth when used as a soil amendment; compost is largely decomposed organic material and is in the process of humification (curing). Compost has little resemblance in physical form to the original biodegradable material from which it was made. Compost is valued for its organic matter content, is typically used as a soil amendment to improve soils and is not a fertilizer unless amended. Quality compost is extremely rich in microbial life. Compost Tea - water in which finished compost has been steeped to concoct a "tea" for plants. This tea can be applied directly as a foliar spray or to the root zone. Composting - a managed process that controls biological decomposition and transformation of biodegradable material into a humus like substance called compost; the aerobic mesophilic and thermophilic degradation of organic matter to make compost. Mesophilic Phase - phase of composting that occurs between 20 to 45°C (68 to 113°F) PFRP - PFRP is the Process to Further Reduce Pathogens Thermophilic Phase - phase in the composting process that occurs between 45° and 75°C (113 and 167°F); it is associated with specific colonies of microorganisms that accomplish a high rate of decomposition. Vermicomposting - The process by which live earthworms convert organic residues into worm castings - the dark, fertile, granular excrement of a worm. Vermicompost - The product of the vermicomposting process that contains worm castings, broken down organic matter, bedding, worm cocoons, earthworms and other living organisms. Vermiculture -The process of worm farming or raising earthworms under a controlled condition. Worm Bin - A container specially prepared for earthworms to live in and consume organic waste. A vermicomposting system.
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