A FIFTH-generation South Australian farmer has realised his goal to release a supercharged liquid fertiliser, made from worm juice.
Fleurieu Peninsula's Chris Pethick of Pethick Orchards, has spent three years helping establishing and refining VermiGold Liquid Tonic.
The product is a high-performing worm extract biostimulant.
Laboratory tests have shown it to have high levels of micro-organisms with a wide diversity of beneficial bacteria, fungi and other microbes.
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The biostimulant is a rich liquid extract, derived from the vermicomposting process. Once extracted, the liquid is not altered in any way.
"We created VermiGold after previously encountering supply issues for another worm product," Mr Pethick said.
"Producing our own allows us to control the whole process, ensuring the worms are being fed the right balance of foods at the right time. We like to think of it as a high-performance diet for worms.
"We have vast experience in worm farming and organic waste management and are really proud of this product and excited to be able to share it."
The product has so far been used commercially on Pethick Orchard's crops, Emerald Hill Cattle Farm's main pasture and Century Orchards in the near future.
Fifty hectares of almonds are currently being planted by Century Orchards, using VermiGold Liquid Tonic as a key beneficial for the soil.
Eligible businesses in the agriculture, horticulture, viticulture sectors or other commercial farmers can contact VermiGold to receive a free 5L sample.
VermiGold Liquid Tonic is available in commercial quantities and is suitable for agricultural, horticultural, viticultural and broad acre applications. It is also suitable for use in home gardens.
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