Tea Time in Wormville

Lesson Overview
Goals
- Students will be able to describe the effects of compost tea on plant development and soil health.
Outcomes
Teach the Teacher
- The Complete Guide to Vermicomposting (included w/ Worm Factory 360)
- What is Compost Tea?
- How to Brew Compost Tea
Tools & Materials
- 2 sets of young starts of a single variety
- Two separate planting areas
- Microscope
Activity
Worm compost is nutrient rich and loaded with beneficial microbes which can improve soil health by increasing the microbial activity. But to many, it may not be clear just how those little buggers impact the garden. The work they do is under the radar, to say the least. We can’t hear them or see them but they are working around the clock.
Their impact is seen over time in the form of improved soil health and increased plant production.
Perform an A/B test on two sets of plants of the same variety in the raised planter. Supplement one set with worm tea regularly during the life cycle.
Evaluate the two sets of plants. What is the impact on its growth habit versus the control with no supplement? Is there a difference in total yield? Is there any noticeable effect on the root development?
Analyze the soil. What impact did it have on the soil surrounding the roots? Look at soil samples from the two plant sets under the microscope to uncover what you can. Is there a difference in the microbial activity? What about the feel and texture of the soil?
Related Lessons
Give the Advanced lesson a try now that you’ve completed the Intermediate Lesson! Or revisit the Beginner Lesson as needed.
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