Can tomato go in your worm bin?
Yes, tomato scraps can go in your Bonter worm bin, but in moderation. They are rich in water and contain acids, which in large quantities can affect the pH and moisture balance of the bin. Furthermore, tomato waste and seeds can potentially attract fruit flies, especially if not well covered. Therefore, add tomato scraps sparingly and follow the tips for the best results in your Bonter.
How much tomato can you add?
Add tomato scraps in moderation, for example, the scraps of one or two tomatoes at a time, as part of a diverse feeding. Always balance the addition of tomato with a generous amount of dry, carbon-rich material (such as shredded cardboard or paper) to absorb the extra moisture and keep the structure airy. Monitor the bin to see how the worms and microbes process the tomato before adding more. Too much can cause problems.
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What to do instead? Alternatives & waste management
Because tomato can go in the worm bin in moderation, you don’t have to throw away small scraps. Do you have an excess of tomatoes that are no longer edible? You could consider processing them into a large batch of tomato sauce or soup that you freeze – a classic way to prevent waste. An outdoor compost heap is also an option for larger quantities. Only discard scraps if there is truly no other destination for them. Always minimize food waste where possible.
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Tips for safe tomato composting
Cut tomato scraps (peels, seed ribs) into smaller pieces to speed up decomposition. Optionally prick open whole, spoiled tomatoes. Mix tomato with sufficient dry bedding material; this is essential to manage moisture and discourage fruit flies. Always bury the tomato scraps well under the top layer. Tomato seeds can survive and later sprout in the compost, but this is not harmful. Ensure good air circulation in the bin (which the Bonter promotes with its filter) to prevent odors, although too much wet waste can still smell musty.
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Frequently asked questions about composting tomatoes
Can tomato seeds go in the worm bin?
Do tomatoes attract fruit flies in the worm bin?
Can I add many tomatoes to my Bonter at once?
Is the peel of tomatoes a problem for the worms?
Can green, unripe tomatoes go in the worm bin?
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