Revital Worms soil micro organisms

Worms and essential soil micro organisms

The link between worms and healthy soils has been recognised since the times of the ancient Greeks. Their capacity to refine soil structure, increase fertility and improve soil conditions necessary for strong and healthy plant growth has only recently become the topic of academic research.

The benefit of earthworms to soil fertility is now recognised as being a combination of many things. Worm feeding action sheds and grinds down organic and inorganic matter assisting with the development of soil aggregates improving soil structure aeration and water holding capacity.

The casts they produce are a concentrated fertiliser and plant growth stimulant. Much of the benefit is derived from the micro organisms associated with the earthworms digestive system. The digestive system of worms is heavily populated with a diverse array of soil benevolent bacteria and fungi.

These micro organisms not only help break down animal and plant residue, they convert complex organic matter into simple soluble substances and mineralise nutrients, which can be used by plants as food. These essential micro organisms are also inoculated into the cast as it passes thorough the worm. When applied to soil as a fertiliser these organisms continue to break down organic and inorganic substances making them plant available. The end product of microbiological decomposition is the production of humus, vermicast is rich in Humic acids. Humic acids are formed through the oxidation of organic matter as it passes through the worms digestive system. Humic acids have been proven to improve soil structure and reduce leaching of essential plant nutrients.