One of the easiest and most straightforward methods of composting is the migration method. This technique involves moving all of the composting contents to one side of the bin, creating an empty space on the other side. By adding fresh, moistened bedding material and fresh food waste to the empty side, you can encourage the worms to migrate to the newer bedding over a period of several weeks.
I have personally used this method in my own composting system, and it has proven to be quite effective. It allows for the easy separation of finished compost from the worms, making the harvesting process much simpler.
To begin, start by clearing one side of the compost bin, moving all of the partially decomposed materials to the other side. This can be done by simply scooping or shoveling the contents to one side, creating an empty space.
Next, add fresh bedding material to the vacant side. This can be a mixture of shredded newspaper, cardboard, leaves, or any other carbon-rich material. It’s important to ensure the bedding is moistened but not overly wet.
Once the bedding is in place, add fresh food waste on top. This can include fruit and vegetable scraps, coffee grounds, tea bags, and other kitchen waste. Be sure to cover the food waste with a layer of bedding material to help control odors and prevent pests.
Over the course of several weeks, the worms will naturally migrate from the side with the older compost to the side with the fresh bedding and food waste. They are attracted to the new food source and the favorable conditions of the fresh bedding.
After a few weeks, you can harvest the finished compost from the side that was initially cleared. This compost will be free of worms, making it easier to use in your garden or potted plants.
It’s important to note that the migration method works best with composting worms, such as red wigglers (Eisenia fetida) or European nightcrawlers (Eisenia hortensis). These worms are specially adapted to composting conditions and are highly efficient at breaking down organic matter.
The migration method of composting is a simple and effective way to separate worms from finished compost. By creating a fresh bedding and food source on one side of the bin, the worms will naturally migrate to it, allowing for easy harvesting of worm-free compost.
