THE PROCESS

A science-based, closed-loop approach to soil regeneration

At Lion Farms, vermicompost production is not treated as waste management. It is a biological process guided by soil science, microbial ecology, and regenerative design. Every step is intentional, monitored, and rooted in research-backed best practices. Our system prioritizes microbial integrity, pathogen reduction, and nutrient stability, resulting in a high-quality vermicompost and vermicompost tea suitable for agricultural, horticultural, and regenerative applications.

OMRI review evaluates material composition, feedstocks, and processing practices to ensure alignment with organic production standards.

Lion Farms vermicompost is produced using inputs and methods that comply with the standards of the Organic Materials Review Institute. OMRI listing confirms that materials used in production meet requirements for use in certified organic systems.

1. Feedstock Selection: 100% Plant-Based Inputs

Lion Farms produces vermicompost using a strictly plant-based (vegan) feedstock. We do not use manure in our production system.

Our feedstock includes:

Pre-composted food scraps
Garden and plant residues
Spent mushroom substrate (sawdust, grains, organic matter)

All feedstock is processed and pre-composted prior to entering the vermicomposting system. This step reduces pathogen load, stabilizes organic material, and creates an optimal substrate for earthworm digestion and microbial activity.

While manure-based systems are common in vermiculture, Lion Farms has intentionally transitioned away from manure inputs to prioritize microbial safety, consistency, and regenerative performance.

2. Earthworm Selection: Eisenia fetida (Red Wigglers)

We utilize epigeic earthworms, specifically Eisenia fetida (red wigglers), selected for their:

High organic matter consumption rate
Rapid reproduction and maturation
Tolerance to environmental fluctuations
Proven effectiveness in vermicomposting systems

These earthworms function as biological processors, fragmenting organic material while hosting complex microbial communities within their digestive systems.

3. Biological Decomposition & Microbial Transformation

Vermicomposting at Lion Farms is a non-thermophilic process, meaning no external heat is applied during decomposition.

Instead, decomposition occurs through:

Physical breakdown of organic matter by earthworms
Biochemical degradation driven by microbial enzymes and organic acids
Microbial population regulation through earthworm digestion

As organic material passes through the earthworm gut, microbial populations are selectively reduced and reshaped. Research shows this process can significantly reduce populations of certain human and plant pathogens while promoting beneficial microbial communities.

4. Continuous Flow System (CFS) Production

Lion Farms operates Commercial Continuous Flow Systems (CFS) designed for consistent, scalable, and controlled vermicompost production.

How the system works:

Feedstock is applied to the top layer of the system
Earthworms migrate upward to consume fresh material
Finished vermicompost is harvested from the bottom
Worm populations remain undisturbed

This system allows for:

Continuous production
Reduced labor during harvest
Consistent product quality
Minimal nutrient loss

Depending on system size and feedstock quality, a single CFS unit can produce hundreds of pounds of vermicompost per week.

5. Environmental Controls & Monitoring

To maintain biological integrity, Lion Farms actively monitors key environmental variables:

Moisture: Maintained within optimal ranges to support earthworm activity
Carbon-to-Nitrogen (C:N) ratio: Balanced to favor epigeic earthworms and microbial efficiency
Aeration & drainage: Prevents anaerobic conditions and nutrient loss
pH: Maintained within earthworm-tolerant ranges

These controls ensure that the vermicompost remains biologically active, stable, and effective as a soil amendment.

6. From Vermicompost to Vermicompost Tea

Finished vermicompost is used directly as a soil amendment or brewed into vermicompost tea.

Tea production includes:

Chlorine-free (RO) water
Aeration and agitation
Controlled brewing times
Optional biological additives depending on application

The resulting tea contains soluble nutrients, beneficial microorganisms, and biologically active compounds that can be applied as:

Soil drenches
Foliar sprays
Irrigation inputs

This process allows for targeted delivery of biological activity while maintaining microbial viability.

Farming Driven by Science

Let's Grow
Together

Sales @lionfarms.com
(305) 467-0304
14950 SW 212 Street Miami, FL 33187 USA