Vermiculture and the Art of Soil Building
with George Blackman
Saturday, March 29, 2008
Lunch (optional) 11:30am - 1:00pm
Afternoon Workshop 1:00-4:00pm
All registrants will be entered for a chance to win one of George's decorative raku creations - a $150 value!
Broccoli growing in
George Blackman's greenhouse/sunroom in
mid-January. These beds are filled to a depth of 2 feet with vermicompost.
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Vermiculture (composting by the activity of worms) was used for thousands of years by the ancient Egyptians for soil building. Throughout history the wonder of the worm has been acknowledged. Cleopatra decreed the worm to be a sacred animal, Aristotle called the worm 'the intestines of the earth', and Charles Darwin noted “It may be doubted whether there are other animals which have played so important a part in the history of the world as have these lowly organized creatures.”
Our ancient ancestors never made a run to the vitamin store!
We shouldn't need to either.
The nutrient quality of any organic material passing through the worm is enriched. Studies show that healthy, synergetic-nutrient effects arise from eating nutrient rich foods as opposed to taking supplements. Unfortunately, our soils today are so depleted in nutrients and minerals that we may need many supplements for achieving optimal personal health. This workshop explores the art and science of developing soil fertility by giving back to the living soil community through the contribution of worms, thus relying on nature to restore our food's nutrient quality.
When more nutrients are available to the soil community, soil health thrives, creating healthy plants and thus healthy people. Research indicates that ancient agricultural methods and purposes were directed toward long term improvement of the soil community. Nutrient rich soil translates to true agricultural sustainability - for thousands of years!
Workshop topics:
- Do’s and dont's for raising the red wiggler composting worm (also known as the manure worm)
- Making good compost for worm food
- Using worms to turn good compost into great compost
- Benefits of vermicompost
- Raising worms outdoors in large and small scale compost piles
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Raising worms indoors on a large or small scale
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Raising worms in a high compost outdoor garden bed, large or small scale
Early season vegetables that were started under George's hoop covers.
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In addition to focusing on the worm, George will touch upon other ancient agricultural methods, such as: the paramagnetic antenna, rock dust called 'the earth that heals' by Native Americans, the value of deep digging, and other soil related topics.
This workshop will stimulate your thoughts about how soil fertility affects the quality of the food you eat. George will stay as long as people have questions and will be providing many handouts. He will customize his presentation to each person’s unique situation to optimize their efforts toward creating soil sustainability.
For Sale:
George will be selling five gallon pails full of high-fertility vermicompost from three blends of compost. This rich product (which will contain some worms) can be used as a starter kit for your journey into vermiculture, used as a soil enhancer, or used as potting soil.
Cost: one pail for $35; three pails for $100.
Raffle:
George is generously offering to raffle one of his exquisite Raku pottery pieces - valued at $150 - to one lucky workshop participant. Everyone who registers for the workshop will receive one raffle ticket for the Raku drawing. The first ten registrants will receive two raffle tickets. Be an early bird and get the worm workshop!
George Blackman
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George Blackman:
A long-time participant of the Stelle community, George Blackman is passionate about creating the best soil possible. George has raised composting worms for over two decades and integrated these red wigglers into his his extensive organic gardens. A student of ancient and esoteric gardening methods, George has experimented for over three decades with time tested methods for soil building in his organic garden. George is an accomplished potter with over three decades of experience and owns Blackman Raku Pottery. He markets his high-quality raku pottery across the U.S.
Cost of afternoon presentation - $40
Cost including lunch: $45
The workshop's lunch ingredients will come primarily from George's nutrient-rich, organic garden and greenhouse. Both vegetarian and meat options will be available.
Location: CSC Meeting Room, Stelle, Illinois
Please email us or call 815-256-2204 if you plan on attending
so we can make adequate arrangements for food and space.
You can register online for the afternoon presentation with or without lunch.
-- Thank You --
Click here for directions to Stelle and the CSC office.
Overnight lodging is available at the Greenhouse Bed and Breakfast, in the homes of Stelle residents, or in area hotels. Camping space is also available. Click here for further details on lodging.
