Starting a compost pile is kind of like exercising. It's a daunting task that seems like it will take a lot of effort, even though you know the benefits are rewarding. Similarly, once you get into a routine, the once-intimidating task is easy as lacing up your running shoes. Fortunately, for Chicagoans who have been considering starting a compost pile, the Urban Worm Girl Composting Company is here to give that little push for returning your garbage back to the earth.
The Urban Worm Girl (a.k.a. Stephanie Davies) will come to your house and teach you the ways of vermiculture (composting with worms) and how it's possible to do it even as a city dweller. Vermicompost is one type of composting, which uses worms in addition to microbes and bacteria to turn organic waste into a nutrient-rich fertilizer. For obvious reasons, many people choose to do plain compost over worm compost. However, the benefits are substantial and according to the Urban Worm Girl website, "worm composting is a reminder of our interconnectedness to the earth and all of its living beings." Thankfully, she makes it easy for us.
Davies and her worm guru Amber Gribben will travel to Chicago apartments and houses and provide all the supplies and information needed to get starting with your worm compost. They offer different packages depending on pick-up vs. home delivery and set-up, and future assistance. They also suggest hosting a Worm Party -- this can be an educational evening to invite friends and learn about vermiculture over watermelon (the rinds can be thrown into the bin afterward!).
Worm composting takes 30 to 60 days to produce compost, but once ready it provides nutrient-rich soil to feed your garden and houseplants. All you need is a fifteen-inch space and she'll show you how it's done.
Contact Urban Worm Girl at 773-355-4804 or info@urbanwormgirl.com.
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