EWM Plant & Soil Nutrient Production
Worm castings are widely recognized as one of the most effective natural soil amendments, providing essential nutrients and beneficial microbes that improve plant health and soil structure. Producing castings in an IBC tote offers an efficient, scalable method for managing organic waste while generating a consistent supply of high-quality vermicompost. This system is well-suited for gardeners and small farms seeking a practical approach to sustainable soil management and unlocking nutrients to make them available to plants.
Producing worm casts / vermicompost in totes.
We use cardboard sheets to retain moisture and keep out sunlight. The worms love to be in the cardboard and will slowly consume it. Once exposed to light they quickly move into the underlying organic material.
The magic - Worm Castings
Instructions for applying worm castings
Autumn & winter indoor plants
Pre planting - Mix EWM worm castings 1 to 4 parts potting soil.
Top dressing – Sprinkle around the plants and water or mix the castings in the water then apply.
Spring & Summer
For seedling trays & pots.
Mix EWM worm castings 1 to 4 parts soil.
Flower and vegetable beds
Pre planting - Spread 1cm on the bed and mix into the soil then water
Top dressing – Sprinkle around the plants and water.
If you want to start your own production, here are a few tips.
To set up your system, you’ll need:
A clean, food-grade IBC tote
Red wiggler worms (Eisenia fetida)
Bedding materials such as shredded cardboard, leaves, or coco coir
Basic tools to cut access panels and drill drainage holes
After preparing the tote with bedding, add your worms and begin feeding small amounts of kitchen scraps, coffee grounds or garden waste. Farmers can use manure / compost from their animals. Over time, increase feeding as the worm population grows. Always avoid meat, dairy, and oily foods, which can cause odors and attract pests.
System Management
Maintain moisture at the level of a wrung-out sponge, ensure good airflow, and protect the tote from extreme heat or cold. A balanced mix of carbon-rich bedding and nitrogen-rich food waste will keep the system healthy.
Harvesting and Use
Within a few months, you’ll notice dark, crumbly worm castings accumulating. Separate the worms from the castings. You can use the castings directly in the garden, alternatively produce extracts or “worm tea.” Castings enrich soil, improve water retention, and support robust plant growth.
Other Benefits.
There are studies and YouTube videos where farmers describe how they have reduced their mineral fertiliser and other chemical costs when applying worm cast extracts.
Conclusion
An IBC tote vermicomposting system is a practical, sustainable way to convert organic waste into a steady supply of high-quality worm castings. You can transform kitchen and garden scraps into a resource that continually benefits your soil and plants.
Recommended learning and resources.
Worm People with Captain Matt for hobby and small scale commercial production.