How often should I apply worm castings?
Written by
Olivia Mitchell
Reviewed by
Prof. Samuel Fitzgerald, Ph.D.The frequency in which you apply worm castings is key. It depends on the plants you have and the season. Vegetables require nourishment every 4-6 weeks during their growing season. Perennials that are established do better with 3-month intervals. Container plants need nourishment every 60 days. Depending on the color of the leaves and the speed of growth, I adjust.
Vegetables
- Tomatoes and peppers: Apply ½ cup every 4 weeks
- Leafy greens: Use ¼ cup monthly during cool seasons
- Root crops: Side-dress at planting and every 8 weeks
Perennials
- Spring application when new growth appears
- Fall feeding before first frost for root reserves
- Established shrubs: 1 cup every 3 months
Container Plants
- Refresh top 2 inches of soil every 60 days
- Mix 1:4 ratio with potting mix at repotting
- Reduce frequency during winter dormancy periods
Notice your plants for adjustment signals. Yellow leaves indicate excessive application or the use of a fertilizer that is too rich. Pale leaves indicate that they are not receiving enough nutrition. I cut down the frequency of application when the leaves curl, but not the quantity. A soil test is helpful in regulating the scheduling of application. Hot weather makes fertilizers work more quickly, so applications are required less frequently.
Proper timing increases efficacy. Apply after rain when the soil is moist but not soggy. Morning applications avoid heat stress from mid-day sun. I have a garden journal with the dates of each feeding. This helps establish feeding times, allowing soil health to improve season after season. This gives you strong plants without guesswork.
Read the full article: Unlocking the Benefits of Worm Castings
