[annandida]

HELP ME !

I have just taken possession of a new allotment.  It is small 12ft6ins x 25ft - thank goodness.
Apparently the soil was removed due to lead contamination and replaced with "new" topsoil.  I have been digging and manuring and have seen no sign of a worm or any other kind of bug.  How do I persuade friendly beasties to join me.

[WG.]

Hi annandida & welcome

T'wurms will move in naturally when the conditions have improved.  You can buy earthworms but they will simply move out if there is insufficient food.

It all starts with bacterial action and you've been doing exactly the correct thing.  Compost would also be good so you may want to consider planting a crop specifically to compost (or to dig in as a green manure).

If you are looking to grow stuff to feed yourselves (rather than the worms) this year, try some courgettes, squash, lettuce & do prepare a bed with triple rations of manure for garlic planting (in late Autumn).

[Trillium]

If you can get hold of a source of old leaves, add them and the worms will flock to your place. It's the organic matter that they love and need. Also, old straw is good too. Chop up a bit with garden shears before adding or digging will be difficult. I collect leaves in the fall and cover them for the next season. I could let them compost on site but the steam causes undue worries for others unfamiliar with composting and one idiot wanted to call the fire dept.  :?