Encouraging Earthworms into Gardens & Pastures
Earthworms prefer pH levels of 6.5 to 7.5. Dolomite lime is a calcium magnesium additive to help maintain the pH balance. Soil tests are an option to detect specific mineral deficiencies and imbalances. Organic rock phosphate, seaweed and fish extract organic fertilisers give good results, but more importantly is the continual use of organic matter such as chicken manure or compost.
Using deep rooting pasture plants such as red clover, chicory, docks or cocks foot help retain moisture during dry spells, yet encouraging the earthworms to remain active.
Earthworms will migrate if there is a lack of organic matter present, so apply compost, blood and bone plus other ingredients like untreated wood ash and lime to ensure the worms willingness to continue making improvements to the soil structure.
To aim for a balance of trace elements within home made compost, use a nitrogen/carbon ratio of around 1:30 and use natural additives such as comfrey, borage, nettle and seaweed which will help achieve the right balance of nutrients in the garden soil, therefore producing healthy flowers and vegetables.
Moisture levels are retained when vermicast and compost are applied. Using mulch on the surface acts as a weed suppressor.
