How much worm castings should I use?

For most garden beds, incorporate worm castings at 5–20% by volume into the top few inches of soil. For container plants, mix 10–25% into potting soil. Smaller amounts can be applied as a top dressing during the growing season.

Can worm castings burn plants?

No. Properly matured worm castings are low in soluble salts and release nutrients gradually, making them safe for seedlings, transplants, and established plants.

Are worm castings better than compost?

Worm castings are often more biologically concentrated than traditional compost, typically containing higher microbial activity and more plant-available nutrients.

Do worm castings replace fertilizer?

Worm castings improve soil biology and nutrient availability. They may reduce reliance on synthetic fertilizers but are commonly integrated into a broader soil fertility program.

What Is Delta Informal Gardeners (DIG)?

By Delta Worms | July 12, 2025

Delta Informal Gardeners (DIG) is a local community of gardeners, plant enthusiasts, and soil lovers who gather to share knowledge, plants, and inspiration throughout the year. Based in East Contra Costa County, DIG brings together beginners and experienced growers alike to exchange ideas, learn what truly thrives in our local climate, and build lasting connections around a shared love of gardening.

DIG is informal by design. There are no complicated requirements — just a welcoming space for people who want to grow better gardens, experiment with new plants, and connect with others who understand the rhythm of the soil.

From seasonal meetings and educational talks to plant swaps and the annual plant sale, DIG offers practical experience and hands-on learning rooted in the unique growing conditions of Delta.

Whether you are just starting your first garden or refining decades of experience, DIG provides a place to grow — together.

Want to know why so many local gardeners are joining? See our Blog 5 Reasons to Join DIG.

What DIG Stands For

Inviting new and seasoned growers alike to learn, share tips, and volunteer.
Hosting classes, garden-projects, and public outreach with a local focus.
A welcoming setting for anyone interested in gardening — from beginner to expert.

DIG Regular Meetings & How to Get Involved

Monthly meetings are held on the fourth Monday at 7:30 PM.
Venue: Brentwood Community United Methodist Church, 809 2nd Street, Brentwood, CA.
All regular meetings are open to public membership.

DIG Key Events & Annual Projects

Board meetings follow the same schedule and location as general meetings.
The club’s annual plant sale occurs each year on the Saturday before Mother’s Day. Collectively, this raises funds for gardening education and local outreach.

Stay Connected

If you’d like to attend a meeting, volunteer, or follow what’s coming up:

Email: info@deltainformalgardeners.org
Check the DIG events page on their website. http://www.deltainformalgardeners.org
Follow their Facebook page for announcements. http://www.facebook.com/BrentwoodDIG

Why This Matters to Gardeners & Soil Lovers

Joining groups like DIG is a powerful way to:

Share and access local gardening knowledge (soil types, microclimates, plant successes/failures).
Connect with folks who value healthy soil, composting, and regenerative practices — the same values behind Delta Worms.
Grow your network for volunteer days, plant swaps, garden tours, and more.

Grow With DIG

Whether you’re a raised-bed gardener, small farmer, or weekend weed-warrior, being part of a community garden club like DIG amplifies your impact. It brings you into a circle of inspiration, shared resources, and collective soil restoration.

Delta Informal Gardeners is more than a meeting — it’s a growing community rooted in shared knowledge, local experience, and a genuine love for plants. Whether you’re curious about what thrives in Delta’s climate, looking to expand your garden, or hoping to connect with others who understand the joy of soil under your fingernails, DIG offers a place to belong.

Every season brings new conversations, new lessons, and new plants to discover. From annual events to casual exchanges of ideas, DIG continues to grow because its members show up, share openly, and support one another.

If you’re ready to deepen your gardening knowledge and connect with fellow growers, we invite you to join us.

Frequently Asked Questions About Delta Informal Gardeners (DIG)

Who can join DIG?

DIG welcomes gardeners of all experience levels. Whether you’re starting your first garden or have decades of growing experience, the group is open to anyone interested in learning, sharing, and connecting with other local gardeners.

Is there a membership fee?

Membership details and any associated costs are shared during meetings and seasonal announcements. DIG is designed to remain accessible and community-focused.

Where are DIG meetings held?

Meetings and events are held in and around Delta, often at community spaces or member-hosted locations. Specific details are shared through DIG communications and event updates.

What types of activities does DIG organize?

DIG hosts regular meetings, educational talks, plant swaps, and the annual plant sale. Activities focus on practical gardening knowledge suited to Delta’s climate and soil conditions.

Do I need prior gardening experience to participate?

No experience is required. DIG is an informal and welcoming group where members learn from one another and grow together.

For a closer look at what makes DIG special, explore our Blog to the 5 Reasons to Join Delta Informal Gardeners.

website: Delta Informal Gardeners

Posted in Community and tagged Brentwood Gardening Club, Community Gardening, composting, Delta Informal Gardeners, Delta Worms, DIG Brentwood, East Contra Costa Gardening, Garden Education, Gardening Events, Plant Sale Brentwood, soil health, Sustainable Gardening, vermicompost