RHS How Do Worms Work?

Synopsis

'This is a lovely book to dip into, and you may even find yourself reading it cover to cover' - the Guardian

'An enlightening and entertaining read that will leave the reader armed with the facts and insight to improve their garden as well as their general knowledge' - The English Garden

RHS How Do Worms Work? provides expert answers to the questions that every gardener wants to ask - and a few that you never even dreamt of. As well as answering the titular question about soil's best friend, this fact-filled journey through the world of the garden is packed with Q&As that are sometimes practical, sometimes whimsical and always intriguing. This richly illustrated volume is an absorbing guide to the quirky and lesser-known aspects of gardening and a perfect gift for any gardener with an inquisitive mind.

With sections on Seeds and Plants; Flowers and Fruits; Below the Ground; Weather, Climate and the Seasons; and In the Garden, RHS How Do Worms Work? holds the answers to common questions such as:
- What's the difference between a fruit and a vegetable?
- Is it true that sunflower heads follow the sun?
- When is a plant a weed?
- How do you attract butterflies?
- How long can a plant survive without water?
and many more.

Summary

Chapter 1: The Worm's World

* Introduces the life cycle and behavior of earthworms.
* Explains the worm's anatomy, including its body segments, mouth, and digestive system.
* Example: Earthworms have five pairs of hearts that pump blood throughout their bodies.

Chapter 2: Worms and Soil

* Discusses the role of earthworms in improving soil health.
* Explains how earthworms create burrows, aerate the soil, and mix organic matter into the ground.
* Example: Earthworm burrows allow water and air to penetrate the soil, making it more fertile for plants.

Chapter 3: Worms and Composting

* Explains how earthworms can be used to compost organic waste.
* Describes the process of vermicomposting, which involves feeding earthworms organic matter and allowing them to break it down into nutrient-rich compost.
* Example: Vermicompost is a valuable soil amendment that improves plant growth and yields.

Chapter 4: Worms in the Kitchen

* Discusses the use of earthworms in culinary applications.
* Explains how earthworms can be used to produce worm tea, a nutrient-rich liquid that can be used to fertilize plants.
* Example: Earthworm tea contains beneficial microbes that promote plant health.

Chapter 5: Worms in the Classroom

* Introduces earthworms as educational tools for students.
* Explains how earthworms can be used to teach concepts about biology, ecology, and environmental science.
* Example: Students can observe earthworm behavior, dissect them to study their anatomy, and conduct experiments to test their responses to different environmental conditions.

Chapter 6: Worms in the Garden

* Discusses the benefits of earthworms for gardeners.
* Explains how earthworms improve soil fertility, suppress pests, and promote plant growth.
* Example: Earthworms create a more conducive environment for plant roots to grow and absorb nutrients.

Chapter 7: Worms in the Ecosystem

* Explores the ecological importance of earthworms.
* Explains how earthworms play a vital role in nutrient cycling, soil formation, and ecosystem stability.
* Example: Earthworms are food for many animals, including birds, reptiles, and amphibians.