Getting started is so easy and anyone can do it.
First select a good bin and a location where it will not be in direct sun (some bins can be kept in your garage). The location should be in an area where you can easily get to the bin to add food, turn the compost, and collect your prize once the castings are ready. You'll also need to keep a bucket or drip pan depending on the type of bin if indoors to catch any worm tea.
Next, prepare the bedding. Aged grass clippings or straw, newspaper or cardboard shredded is a good start. Moisten or spray with water until well saturated but not dripping wet. This bedding can and will be eaten by the worms but you should also add in any other approprate organic food such as vegetable scraps, bread crumbs, coffee grounds, animal manures (avoid dog or cat) - horse and cattle are best if available.
Now add your worms. Check the bin every day or so to make sure the conditions are good. Keep an eye on temperatures 68-80 is best and spray water if the bedding begins to dry too much. Its best to not add any more food until the previous food is mostly eaten, then add another layer but no thicker than an inch or so.
That's all there is to it! Follow these easy steps and you'll be a pro worm rancher in no time. Your first batch of castings will be available usually within 2 months. Harvesting is dependant on your bin type. See section on "Harvesting your Castings" for tips and more info. |
Organic Gardening and Composting Resources
