vermicomposting

noun

ver·​mi·​com·​post·​ing ˌvər-mə-ˈkäm-ˌpō-stiŋ How to pronounce vermicomposting (audio)
: the process of using annelid worms and especially red worms to break down organic matter into compost that contains worm castings
Electrical indoor composters use heat and grinding elements to rapidly break down scraps, while vermicomposting utilizes worms to decompose vegetation, creating a byproduct called worm castings that makes a healthy soil additive filled with diverse microorganisms.Tessa Flores
see also vermicompost

Examples of vermicomposting in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Horse manure containing alfalfa hay is an ideal medium for vermicomposting (vermis means worm in Latin), which yields worm castings (a euphemism for worm poop), the best soil amendment under the sun. Joshua Siskin, Orange County Register, 30 Aug. 2024 Worm farm in south Phoenix grows sustainably in the desert High cost limits participants But vermicomposting comes with costs. Kylie Werner, The Arizona Republic, 16 June 2023 Located near South Mountain, the farm breeds red wiggler worms for vermicomposting, which is the process of using worms to break down food waste into nutrient-rich soil that fertilizes plants. Kylie Werner, The Arizona Republic, 16 June 2023 Topics will include: waste prevention; recycling processes; household hazardous waste and alternatives; and vermicomposting and home composting. Post-Tribune Staff, chicagotribune.com, 6 Oct. 2020 Some came up in bags of soil, some were purchased for vermicomposting, some hitchhiked in houseplant pots and more. Jeff Lowenfels, Anchorage Daily News, 21 Apr. 2022 Napa’s ‘Worm Lady’ reflects on 20-plus years of vermicomposting, plus some tips for those new to composting with worms. Julia Wick, Los Angeles Times, 15 Mar. 2022

Word History

First Known Use

1978, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of vermicomposting was in 1978

Dictionary Entries Near vermicomposting

Cite this Entry

“Vermicomposting.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/vermicomposting. Accessed 21 Dec. 2024.

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