So I gave a sample of our vermicompost to our friend who is a soil food web consultant and compost expert. He did some analysis using a microscope and sent me some images/videos as well as some qualitative descriptions of the material. I made a video that includes that analysis:
https://youtu.be/bRQBElvGmVA
What he said makes a lot of sense to me. This was my first attempt at a worm farm, so it’s not that surprising to me that it wasn't perfect. I learned that I need to control the moisture a little better, add more dried materials and limit the amount of sopping wet food that I add. But otherwise it seems like I’ve done okay for my first attempt. I was mostly just keeping an eye on the worms themselves, who seemed very happy and healthy (their population exploded through the summer).
It’s interesting that he said it could’ve used more time, because to me it seems like maybe it sat for too long. The material was lighter and fluffier but then started to get more dense and compacted and soggy. It would be interesting to have him analyze the material at various times through the season to see how it evolves. I also might have given him a sample that wasn’t totally representative of the bulk of the material (I scooped from the bottom, near the drain, when I probably should’ve taken multiple scoops from various parts of the tub).
But regardless of the quality of the vermicompost, the worm farm was a huge success as far as an educational tool. Kids were super stoked to explore the worm tub and learn about the soil food web.
Anyway, let me know what you think. I’m always open to suggestions and criticisms, always learning and improving. Definitely interested in trying again next season.
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