Hello fellow compost enthusiasts! I’m Amanda from Worm Wrangler, based in the beautiful landscapes of Ontario, Canada. Today, I want to take you on a deep-dive into the world of continuous flow vermicomposting systems, focusing on three popular options that I’ve had the pleasure of using over the years. If you’re a sustainability enthusiast, environmentalist, or home gardener, you’ll find this guide especially useful as I share my personal experiences and insights.
Setting Up Your Vermicomposting System
Recently, I’ve been in the process of moving my shop, which has given me the perfect opportunity to reset and review three vermicomposting systems I’ve used extensively. Here’s a detailed look at each, along with their pros and cons:
The Worm Hut
Material: Made from synthetic cloth, the Worm Hut doesn’t come with a frame, offering a bit more flexibility in customization. However, this means you’ll need to invest additional time and materials to set it up properly.
Setup and Operation:
- Customizability: Allows for a personalized frame height, which can be adjusted for better access to the bottom during harvesting.
- Harvesting Considerations: While the taller frame is great for taller folks, it can be a challenge for shorter individuals who might need a step ladder to feed the worms.
The Urban Worm Bag
Material: Also made of synthetic cloth, the Urban Worm Bag comes with all materials needed for setup right out of the box, making it a more straightforward option.
Setup and Operation:
- Ease of Use: Everything you need is included, which helps minimize the setup hassle.
- Harvesting Considerations: Though very low to the ground, making floor-level harvesting cumbersome, it’s compact and tidy.
The Hungry Bin
Material: Constructed from durable plastic, the Hungry Bin features a built-in frame with wheels, enhancing mobility—a notable advantage given the heavy nature of these systems when filled.
Setup and Operation:
- Durability and Mobility: Ideal for outdoor use due to its sturdy build and rodent deterrence.
- Harvesting Considerations: The solid base makes it the least finicky system to harvest from, with easy access facilitated by side latches.
Key Differences and Features
Each of these vermicomposting systems shines in its unique way:
Height and Accessibility:
- Worm Hut allows for adjustable height, beneficial for those who prefer easier bottom access.
- Urban Worm Bag is compact but low to the ground, which can be a hassle during harvesting.
- Hungry Bin offers a user-friendly height with wheels for added mobility.
Material and Durability:
- Cloth Systems (Worm Hut and Urban Worm Bag) are easy to transport and store but may not withstand outdoor environments with wildlife.
- Plastic System (Hungry Bin) is durable and more suitable for outdoor use.
Ventilation and Water Retention:
- Both the Worm Hut and Urban Worm Bag offer breathability, important for preventing quick drying.
- The Hungry Bin’s ventilation design makes it ideal for maintaining moisture balance, especially outdoors.
Bottom Openings:
- Worm Hut and Urban Worm Bag utilize drawstring closures, with the latter having a liquid catchment compartment.
- Hungry Bin features a solid bottom with a secondary pan, making it less cumbersome during harvest.
Making an Informed Choice
The price points for these systems reflect their features and capabilities:
- Hungry Bin is the most substantial investment at $400 CAD, inclusive of shipping, available from Worm Wrangler.
- Urban Worm Bag costs $219 CAD on Amazon, including shipping, with a commission-supporting link provided.
- Worm Hut is priced at $135 CAD plus shipping, with a total cost of $164 CAD within Canada.
When choosing the right vermicomposting system, consider your specific needs, budget, and intended use location. Each system offers distinct benefits, but the Hungry Bin’s robust build makes it the best outdoor option, while the Urban Worm Bag is ideal for compact, indoor spaces.
Join the Composting Community
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Happy composting!