Composting runner bean scraps with worms
The ends and any tough pieces of runner beans can be added to your Bonter worm bin. Due to their fibrous structure, they require a bit more time and attention to compost than softer types of vegetables. With the right preparation, however, they can be processed perfectly well into valuable compost.
Can runner beans go in your worm bin?
Yes, runner bean scraps are suitable for your Bonter worm bin, but they break down slowly. The pods of runner beans are quite fibrous, which means breakdown proceeds slower than with many other kitchen scraps. They are not harmful to the worms but remain present in the bin longer. So, add them in moderation as part of a varied diet.
How much runner beans can you add?
Add runner bean scraps in moderation to your Bonter. Limit the quantity to small pieces at a time. It is crucial to cut them small and mix them well with other, faster-digesting waste and sufficient dry, carbon-rich bedding material (such as cardboard or paper). Due to the slow breakdown, it is important to not add too much at once. Be patient and observe how the worms process them.
What to do instead? Alternatives & waste management
Because runner beans can go in the worm bin in moderation, you don’t have to throw away small scraps. Fibrous ends or tough runner beans can be used to make broth, which can be a savory addition. A traditional outdoor compost heap is also a suitable place for runner bean scraps where they have more time to break down. Try to prevent waste by reusing scraps where possible before composting or discarding them.
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Tips for safe runner bean composting
The most important tip for runner bean scraps is size reduction! Cut the runner beans into small pieces less than 1 cm. This increases the surface area and significantly speeds up breakdown. Mix the runner bean snippets with other waste and bury it well under the top layer of the bedding material. Be patient, as you will likely see the fibrous parts of runner beans longer in the bin than most other vegetable scraps. Your Bonter filters odors effectively.
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Frequently asked questions about composting runner beans
Can the tough ends of runner beans go in the worm bin?
Yes, the tough ends of runner beans can go in the worm bin, but it is crucial to cut them very small because they are very fibrous and decompose slowly.
How quickly do runner beans decompose in a worm bin?
Do I need to make runner beans small before I add them?
Do runner beans cause odors in the worm bin?
Can cooked runner bean scraps go in the worm bin?
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