Gardening: How to compost using a wormery or worm bin 

Wriggle down a wormhole to learn about unsung horticultural heroes from Irish Examiner garden expert Peter Dowdall 

Earthworms will make short work of kitchen scraps, turning them into nutrient-rich compost. Picture: iStock

I've received many queries recently regarding ash from fires and stoves and whether or not it can be used in that garden. Only ash from burning wood or charcoal, never coal ash, can be used in the garden. It does make a great addition to the soil as it is rich in potash, an important ingredient to promote the development of flower buds, berries and fruits.

It’s probably best to add it to the compost bin where it will be mixed in amongst other ingredients.