Earth Day Fun- Earthworms

Aloha!

With spring in full swing I suspect that many of us ask for a bit of help in the garden. Pulling weeds, planting, mulching...... However, did you know there is help already in the ground? I'm talking about earthworms!

Earthworms and Soil:

An important role earthworms play is tunneling through the soil. Tunneling accentuates the percolation (from the Latin word meaning to strain through) of water into the soil. This loosens the soil so oxygen and aerobic bacteria can get into plant roots allowing deeper penetration growing bigger, healthier plants.

Another role worms play is recycling organic waste by turning your kitchen scraps into worm castings(worm poop). Worm castings enrich the soil. We all know the better the soil, the better the garden.

Did you know? If there were only 5,000 worms in an acre of soil, they can produce up to 50 tons of worm castings!

Click here to learn why worm castings are beneficial

Earth Day Fun - Sustainable Farming

Why sustainable farming?

Farmers who practice sustainable farming work with nature without depleting its precious resources. This can even be done in your own backyard!

Sustainable Farming Techniques:

No Till Agriculture

Most conventional farmers rely on tilling the soil. Tilling turns over the soil making it easier to plant new crops. However tilling kills living organisms (including earthworms), allows vital nutrients to escape, and gives weeds a chance to germinate.

Water and Solar Power

Utilizing what mother nature has already given us is a cost effective way to work the land. Solar and wind power are great natural energy resources. The cost may seem high up front, but the results will more than pay for itself. Regarding water conversation, only use the water you need, mulch heavily and collect rainwater when possible can also make your carbon foot lighter.

To read more click here

Earth Day Fun - DIY Organic Mulching

Organic mulching is:

Truly the best thing to help plants remain healthy. If one does nothing but mulch, plants will respond positively and grow much healthier.

Organic mulching creates an environment for lots of good things to happen. Mulching creates a cool, dark, and moist environment where earthworms (your best friends) thrive. Earthworms loosen the earth, aerate and fertilize plants. Click here to learn more about earthworms

Spreading organic mulch saves labor and nurtures plants by preventing most weed seeds from germinating. By maintaining moist soil during summer months, organic mulch reduces the need to water. Click here for 9 tips to save water at home.

Did you know? Myth: Mulching prevents soil from freezing. Fact: Mulching decreases the possibility of plants being trapped in freeze/thaw cycles. Organic mulching allows soil to warm up gradually in spring, preventing damage to plants that germinate early before temperatures are warm enough to sustain them.

Click here to read more