About Our Worm Farm
On our farming journey, we have tried different methods and products to help boost plant growth; the one thing that has stood out from the rest is Vermiculture. Utilising the casting in potting mix, adding directly to the garden and making it into the extract.
From the beginning, we could see the positive effects of worm extract on our farm; the pasture growth improved, the sugar content increased (Brix reading) reducing the effect of Red Legged Earth Mites and other pests and the overall plant resilience improved. Livestock health increased, and the wildlife began to return.
Over time the soil health began to improve with an increase in soil aggregation, worms present, and infiltration. The whole ecosystem seemed to thrive.
It all started with the belief that this method could make a difference in our farming practices. Little did we know that our intuition would lead us down a path of discovery and scientific understanding.
Delving into the Science
Eight years ago, the next generation started looking into the science behind vermicompost and introduced us to the world of soil microbiology.
Undertaking Elaine Ingham's Soil microbiology course provided us with a solid foundation of knowledge about the intricate relationships between soil microorganisms and plant health. Armed with this newfound understanding, we were able to refine our vermiculture practices and maximize its potential.
Microbiology Assessment and Services
Our quest for knowledge didn't stop at the course. We wanted to share our expertise with others and help them harness the power of microorganisms in their farming endeavours.
To do this, we invested in a microscope and honed our skills in conducting microbiology counts. Skills learnt through Elaine Ingham's: Certified Lab-Tech course.
Creating the Extract
To create Vermi-Extract from the compost requires aerating the liquid for 24 hours. The compost is placed into a 400um bag, allowing the biology to be released without any debris, there is an air tube in the bag to create a swirling motion strong enough to dislodge the microbiology but not harm them.
The extract is created from the compost out of the worm farms, this contains all trophic levels: bacteria, protozoa, Nematodes and Fungi.
Our 25-year journey with worm vermiculture has been a testament to the power of observation, curiosity, scientific understanding, and Farm management practices.
We have seen first-hand the transformative effects of this practice and have made it our mission to share our knowledge and expertise with others. Whether it's through our worm casting, Liquid extract, or live worms helping them start their worm farms, we are committed to helping farmers harness the potential of microorganisms for a healthier and more sustainable future.