Earthworms in New Zealand: Life Beneath the Surface

by Amy Brown

* Why aren't there any earthworms in my garden?
* Are all worms the same?
* Does super-phosphate kill worms?
* Are all chemicals bad for worms?
* Are earthworm casts any use?
* What's the difference between composting worms and earthworking worms?

In this book, Amy Brown answers these and many other questions about earthworms. Whatever size garden or farm you have, earthworms will improve your soil fertility and structure. And given the right conditions, they will continue to breed and work year after year, with continued benefits; compare this with the time, cost, and repeat applications involved in conventional fertilising and spraying regimes.

Find out the correct worms to use for your needs, how to keep them happy, and how to breed them. This is vital reading for all growers, from container and suburban gardeners to horticulturalists, farmers and, orchardists.

110 pages, Paperback

Published January 1, 1995

Reviews

[Ben]

Brown is a professional writer and worm enthusiast who fills this short book with a wealth of New Zealand specific research and information about pasture and composting worms. Her focus is on the (introduced) pasture and compost worms, rather than any native varieties of earthworm. These introduced species provide the most value for New Zealand's primary agricultural industry, and also create opportunities for the home gardener.

The book has some of the best information on earthworm life-cycle and behaviour I've read so far as well as a good introduction to installing a worm farm for composting. Brown writes with a confidant and humorous voice and the book was a quick, helpful and pleasant read.