What You’ll Need
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Dark plastic bin (40-60L)
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Shredded newspaper/cardboard
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Coconut coir bedding
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Starter worms (500-1000)
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Vegetable scraps for food
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Spray bottle for moisture
Step-by-Step Guide
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Tips for Success
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Pro TipWorm compost (castings) is a valuable by-product — excellent fertiliser for plants and gardens.
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Pro TipEarthworms are one of the most nutritious feeders available — rivalling silkworms in protein and Ca:P ratio.
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Pro TipA healthy worm bin has a pleasant earthy smell. Bad odour = too wet, too much food, or poor ventilation.
Common Problems & Warnings
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WarningNever use worms from gardens that may have been treated with pesticides, herbicides, or slug pellets.
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WarningRed wigglers (Eisenia fetida) produce a mild irritant when stressed — some reptiles dislike them. Nightcrawlers are generally better accepted.
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WarningKeep the bin away from extreme heat — worms die above 30°C.
References
- Finke, M.D. (2002). “Complete nutrient composition of commercially raised invertebrates.” Zoo Biology, 21(3), 269–285.
- Oonincx, D.G.A.B. & Dierenfeld, E.S. (2012). “An investigation into the chemical composition of alternative invertebrate prey.” Zoo Biology, 31(1), 40–54.