Starting a Worm Bin - UPDATE

Hello folks!


In a past post, I had a video about starting a worm bin. I have been doing some research on this and have found that may not be the best way to start one.  I found a YouTube channel from a professional worm farmer with lots of information. Its called Big Tex Worms.


 Here is a video from a pro on the correct way to start a worm bin.

I was surprised with the fact that she doesn't use drainage holes...every video that I've seen from other sources always used drain holes. Maybe they where not maintaining their bins properly. Of course, if you want to collect worm juice from a large bin, you have to have a drain hole.



My worms have out grown their small bin, so I'm starting a new larger bin. I'm going to follow her advice and see how it goes. I couldn't find coco coir locally, so I ordered some on Amazon. If you look through the list you can find suppliers with free shipping.



If any of you have lots of experience with worm composting, please comment on this and let us know what you have learned.






So......Until next time......HAPPY GARDENING!

Starting a Worm Bin

 

 In a recent post I made a statement about putting kitchen scraps in a worm bin.

 Here is a good video showing a simple way to start one.

 

 

 

This is an easy way to get started. This is referred to as worm composting. The technical term for it is vermiculture. The worms eat the organic matter and produce worm castings (A.K.A. worm poop).The castings are nutrient-rich and probably the best fertilizer an organic gardener can use.

 

 I would recommend using an 1/8" drill bit to drill holes in the bottom of the bin. Any larger and the worms may be able to escape.....any smaller and the holes may clog and not drain properly. Also, drill several holes under the top lip on the bin for good air circulation.  I also recommend running the news paper through a paper shredder. Its not required, but it helps. You can also add strips of cardboard, shredded junk mail, leaves, and kitchen scraps. Worms love coffee grounds. Materials that shouldn't be used include meat or greasy food items, citrus, or starchy items such as bread or pasta.

 

I recommend using Red Wiggler worms. They are available on-line from many sources. You can also contact your local county extension agency and possibly obtain a few free to get started. I started mine with worms from a friend. He started his with a dozen free worms that he obtained from our county extension agent. They will quickly reproduce if properly feed.

 

So get started and you can produce your own free organic fertilizer!

 

 

Soooo...... Until next time......HAPPY GARDENING!