Composting fennel scraps with worms
Scraps from fennel, including the soft fronds and the firm bulb/stalk, can be added to your Bonter worm bin. The fronds digest quickly, but the bulb/stalk requires more time and attention to compost. Add this aromatic green in moderation for healthy and efficient composting.
Can fennel go in your worm bin?
Yes, fennel scraps are suitable for your Bonter worm bin, but add them in moderation. The fine, feathery fronds break down quickly and are excellent worm food. However, the white, fleshy bulb/stalk is denser and more fibrous, which means decomposition proceeds slower. Fennel also has a strong anise-like smell. In normal quantities, this is usually not a problem, but too much could potentially repel the worms or affect the environment in the bin.
How much fennel can you add?
Add fennel scraps in moderation to your Bonter. Limit the quantity, especially of the bulb/stalk, to small pieces at a time. Cut the bulb/stalk finely to promote breakdown. Mix fennel well with other, faster-digesting waste and ensure sufficient dry, carbon-rich material (such as cardboard or paper). This helps breakdown and absorbs moisture. Too much fennel at once can slow down the composting process and potentially cause odors, despite the Bonter filter.
What to do instead? Alternatives & waste management
Because fennel scraps can go in the worm bin in moderation, you don’t have to throw away small quantities. Fennel fronds are delicious in salads or as a garnish, or to use in broth. The bulb/stalk can also go in broth for a subtle anise flavor. A traditional outdoor compost heap is a suitable place for larger quantities of fennel waste. Try to prevent waste by creatively reusing scraps.
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Tips for safe fennel composting
Cut fennel scraps, especially the bulb/stalk, as small as possible to speed up breakdown. The fronds can go in as they are, possibly made smaller. Mix the fennel scraps well with other waste and a generous amount of dry bedding material. Bury the mix under the top layer. This helps discourage fruit flies and manage any odors. The bulb/stalk may remain visible longer. Your Bonter’s filter keeps odors contained, but an excess of fennel can locally give off a mild anise smell.
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Frequently asked questions about composting fennel
Can the fronds of fennel go in the worm bin?
Yes, the fine, feathery fronds of fennel are highly suitable for the worm bin. They are soft and decompose quickly, just like other leafy greens.
Can the bulb/stalk of fennel go in the worm bin?
Does fennel cause odors in the worm bin?
How quickly does fennel decompose in a worm bin?
Can cooked fennel go in the worm bin?
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