Composting as a Form of Cooperation with Nature

What happens to organic waste after it ends up in the compost bin? In Tartu Nature House’s vermicomposting workshop, we’ll take a fresh look at waste—not as a problem, but as an opportunity to learn from nature itself.

We’ll explore how organic waste decomposes in nature, the role of soil organisms in this process, and how to apply these same principles at home or at work. We’ll learn about vermicomposting—a composting system that uses earthworms.

In this hands-on workshop, we’ll use a magnifying glass to observe soil organisms, learn the basics of composting, and discover how to create a suitable habitat for earthworms.

What will we discover in this workshop?

The vermicomposting workshop combines hands-on exploration, learning about the natural world, and eco-friendly solutions.

• Biowaste can be turned into valuable compost. We’ll explore how organic waste breaks down and transforms into a useful material for growing plants.
• We’ll explore soil life. Using a magnifying glass, we’ll observe tiny soil creatures and learn about their role in the nutrient cycle.
• We’ll explore the world of earthworms. We’ll learn how earthworms help break down organic material and produce compost.
• We’ll learn how to set up a vermicompost bin. We’ll explore the principles behind how a compost bin works and the conditions required for it.
• We’ll discuss compost bin maintenance. We’ll explore how to maintain the right moisture levels, aeration, and amount of food so that earthworms can thrive in the compost bin.
• We’ll learn how to avoid common problems. We’ll discuss why earthworms might leave the compost bin and how to keep the composting system in balance.

What is vermicomposting?

Vermicomposting is the breakdown of organic waste through the combined action of earthworms and microorganisms. This process produces nutrient-rich compost that can be used for growing plants.

A vermicomposter allows you to process organic waste even in a small space and is therefore ideal for hobbyists who don’t have a large yard or a traditional compost pile.

In this workshop, we’ll learn what types of waste are suitable for a vermicomposter, how to maintain it, and what conditions the organisms living inside it require.

Soil Life Under the Microscope

A lot happens during composting that we can’t see with the naked eye. In this workshop, we’ll explore the invisible life in the soil and its importance in nature’s cycle of matter.

We’ll use a magnifying glass to observe soil organisms and discuss how they help break down organic matter, support soil biodiversity, and influence soil properties.

You can apply what you learn both to maintaining a vermicomposter and to caring for the soil in your home garden.

What will you take away from this workshop?

By the end of the workshop, participants will have:

• Practical knowledge of composting food waste.
• Skills for setting up and maintaining a vermicompost bin.
• A better understanding of the role of earthworms and other soil organisms.
• New insights and discoveries about soil life.
• If desired, the opportunity to take home a box of earthworms (Eisenia fetida) to start vermicomposting at home.

Who is this workshop for?

The vermicomposting workshop is suitable for anyone who wants to understand how biowaste can be turned into a valuable resource and how to support nature’s nutrient cycle through their everyday choices.

The workshop is suitable for work teams, groups of friends, environmental enthusiasts, and other groups who want to combine hands-on learning with exciting nature observations.

It’s a great opportunity to gain new knowledge that can be applied at home, in the garden, and at work.

Workshop Registration and Booking

Workshops are held by advance reservation. We are flexible in our planning and will accommodate your group’s wishes and needs whenever possible.

You can use the booking form to specify your preferred date, the number of participants, and any special requests. Together, we’ll find a solution that works for your group.

Would you like to explore other options? Check out other workshops at Tartu Nature House →