vermicomposting

noun

ver·​mi·​com·​post·​ing ˌvər-mə-ˈkäm-ˌpō-stiŋ 

: 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

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

Etymology

vermi- + compost entry 2 + -ing entry 1

First Known Use

1978, in the meaning defined above