Making compost soil

[Thompson]

I was wondering if anyone has ever made their own organic fertilizer for their plants. I have been reading about using frass from silkworms and some left over veggie shavings for a good fertilizer for my plants. Is this ok to use in my chameleons plants? Would it be ok to go uncovered since it is all organic material?

 

[Thompson]

Bump, any thoughts?

 

[DGray]

earthworm castings "tea"

First, I don't know why you wouldn't use a commercial liquid houseplant food. Way cheaper, easier, and less smelly than organics. Second, undecomposed organic matter will have to go through a decomposition process and organisms (such as molds) can be dangerous to you and your animals.

But, if you insist on making your own, you can make a solution they call earthworm castings "tea" from bagged earthworm compost you buy at a nursery. Stir a couple of cups of castings vigorously in a bucket of water and pour a couple of cups off while its swirling. Use right away on potted plants. Worm castings (poop) are rich is minerals and seem to have beneficial properties, even though the actual nutrient levels are very small.


A similar "tea" can be made from thoroughly decomposed garden compost.

 

[sandrachameleon]

I use compost tea to fert my plants, including those in the cham cages.
note - the fras from silkworms goes moldy quickly - I wouldnt use that

 

[SliK JiM]

I just use slow realease plant food and bury it below the roots. This encourages root growth and stops my cham eating any of it. Working a treat so far!

 

[Thompson]

ok I'll just use the house plant food that nurseries sell. Thanks!

 

[ChamOh]

First, I don't know why you wouldn't use a commercial liquid houseplant food.

Probably because he was worried plant food could hurt his cham.

I've used worm castings, and it's great for any of your plants. I've gotten some of eBay before pretty cheap from worm farms.

 

[SliK JiM]

ok I'll just use the house plant food that nurseries sell. Thanks!

Yeah, bury it quite deep or cover the soil where you water as he/she may be tempted to eat the soil for the nutrients etc.