Can You Put Worms in Potted Plants?

Worms are often associated with traditional outdoor composting methods, but they can also be beneficial for potted plants. In fact, incorporating worms into your potted plant's soil can help improve the health and fertility of your plants. However, there are certain things you should consider before adding worms to your potted plants.

The Benefits of Adding Worms to Potted Plants

Worms are natural decomposers, which means they help break down organic matter into nutrient-rich castings. When added to potted plant soil, worms can help increase the soil's fertility by supplying essential minerals and nutrients that plants need to grow. The castings also help improve soil structure, which can enhance water retention and drainage properties.

In addition to improving soil health, worms can also help control pests and diseases. They can help reduce the population of harmful organisms that may be present in the soil, like fungus gnats or root aphids. Worms also release beneficial microorganisms into the soil when they burrow and digest organic matter, which can help prevent plant diseases.

How to Incorporate Worms into Your Potted Plants

Before adding worms to your potted plants, it's important to make sure the environment is suitable for them. Ensure that the pot has proper drainage, that the soil is moist but not waterlogged, and that the temperature is within the range of 55-75°F.

One way to incorporate worms into your potted plants is by adding worm castings to the soil. Worm castings are available for purchase at garden centers and online, or you can make your own by composting kitchen scraps in a worm bin. Simply mix the castings into the top layer of soil and water thoroughly.

If you want to add live worms to your potted plants, choose a species that can thrive in the pot's environment. Red wigglers or Eisenia fetida are recommended for indoor composting because they can tolerate a wide range of temperatures and moisture levels.

Start by adding a small amount of worms to the pot, about 50-100 for a medium-sized plant. As they start to reproduce, the population will increase, and their castings will help improve the soil's health and fertility over time.

Considerations When Adding Worms to Potted Plants

While adding worms to your potted plants can be beneficial, there are some things to keep in mind. First, avoid overfeeding the worms. Only add as much organic matter as they can eat in a couple of days, or it may start to rot and create bad odors. Also, be sure to add fresh bedding material, like shredded paper or leaves, on top of the soil periodically to maintain a healthy worm population.

If you are using live worms, avoid adding pesticides or chemicals to the soil, as these can harm the worms and the beneficial microorganisms they release. Potted plants that have been treated with chemical fertilizers or insecticides may not be suitable for adding worms, as these chemicals can be harmful to them and the plants.

Finally, if you're concerned about the potential mess or odor that worms may create, you can use a self-contained worm bin designed for indoor use. These bins are compact and easy to use and can be kept in a closet or under a sink. The castings they produce can be easily harvested and added to your plants' soil.

Conclusion

Adding worms to your potted plants can be a great way to improve soil health, control pests and diseases, and promote overall plant growth. By following the right steps and providing a suitable environment, you can enjoy the benefits of healthy, thriving potted plants with the help of these hard-working little creatures.