The VermBin24 Flow-Through System
Professional Vermicomposting at Home
For quite a few years I’ve been envisioning the sort of “ultimate” home-scale vermicomposting bin that I would love to own and use. I was initially inspired by the large-scale flow-through reactors used by industry pros – it was clear that these were the best of the best in the world of vermicomposting. The problem, of course, is that these systems are very large (and very expensive) – not at all practical for my own situation.
I daydreamed of various ways to construct a much more compact version of this type of bed, but alas, I’m “all thumbs” – so even if I had been able to create a workable design, my chances of actually constructing it would have been slim to none. Teaming up with a skilled DIYer seemed like the next logical step, but I just couldn’t seem to connect with anyone who had a real interest in my vision! Multiple promising starts ended up fizzling out over time.
Then, I met Joe.
Joe Denial is what you might call a “Jack-of-all-Trades”. Originally trained (and employed) as a technical illustrator, he ended up in graphic design & advertising, before settling on home remodeling as his chosen vocation. Somewhere along the way he also happened to develop an interest in vermicomposting.
Back in the spring (2011), Joe ordered a bunch of worms and initiated a friendly email exchange to share what he was doing. One of his early projects involved the construction of a large flow-through vermicomposting bed – what would eventually become known as the “VermBin96″. Just for kicks and giggles, he decided to create some diagrams, take some photos and then send me a PDF copy to see what I thought.
When I saw Joe had done I was completely floored! If anyone could help me bring my “ultimate” bin to fruition, this was the guy! I immediately asked Joe if he had an interest in teaming up. Thankfully he said yes and, well, here we are!
The VermBin24 (VB24) is a single-compartment, flow-through bin designed for those who want to experience the joys of truly effective vermicomposting without the need to buy or build a professional system.
While it’s small enough to sit unobtrusively in a wide range of indoor or outdoor locations, the VB24 is still larger than many home vermicomposting bins, thus offering substantial waste processing potential.
I knew Joe was good, but I can honestly say that he’s exceeded my expectations in terms of creating a set of plans that are laid out in a clear, easy to follow manner, and a beautiful flow-through bin that doesn’t require professional building skills (or hundreds of dollars) to construct!
The feedback we’ve received already has been amazing! One of our customers, Neal (“from Maryland”), was so pumped up about his VB24 building experience that he even decided to document the process and create a photo-journal that could be shared with fellow VermBin plan owners! (Now available for download in the member’s area)
What’s So Great About Single-Compartment Flow-Through Systems?
Faster Waste Processing – Flow-through systems help to optimize the vermicomposting process, resulting in faster conversion of waste materials into worm castings.
Easier Harvesting of Worm Castings – One of the main advantages of flow-through bins is that they help you separate the worms from the worm castings. As new materials are added over time the worms continue to migrate upwards, away from concentrations of their own wastes.
Better Quality Worm Castings – Anyone who has tried to harvest compost (if you can even call it that) from an enclosed plastic tub system will know that it can look (and smell) a lot more like sludge than beautiful worm castings. Good quality flow-through beds on the other hand promote the proper stabilization of the vermicompost – in large part due to the increased oxygenation of the composting zone.
Healthier Worm Population – Single compartment flow-through beds provide composting worms with something much closer to their “ideal” living environment. Rather than basically being forced to live in their own wastes for extended periods, they can continue moving upwards towards the best feeding zones.
K.I.S.S. at its Best – Unlike the stacking tray flow-through bins, single-compartment bins are a breeze to use. No more trying to get worms to migrate from tray to tray or ending up with gobs of worms down in your “worm tea” reservoir. You basically just add wastes near the top, then harvest worm castings from the bottom (once ready).
Questions/Concerns? – be sure to check out the VermBin24 Q&A blog post, and/or fire me an email any time!
VermBin24 Flow-Through Vermicomposting System plans with user guide – and all future updates/add-ons
Neil’s VB24 Photo Journal – a non-DIYer’s perspective on building the VermBin24.
VB48/VB96 Upgrade Package – Additional info/specs for those interested in building the larger versions of the VB24. (COMING SOON!)
Bentley’s VB48 Photo/Video Journal – documentation of my own VB48 building experience (You may have to wait for a little while on this one, but hopefully by early spring of 2012)
1) These are e-resources (accessed online via computer) and that no physical goods will be mailed to me.
2) Some DIY skills (and tools) will be required (and almost certainly some money spent on building supplies) to complete this project.
IMPORTANT: I am planning to hold a 25% off sale very soon. Once live I will post the discount code on this page (and include it in an RWC newsletter etc)