Worm Composting

Workshop Volunteer Showing Worms to Young KidsWorm composting is using red worms to recycle food scraps and other organic material into a valuable soil amendment called vermicomposting, or worm compost.

Worms

Worms need to be red wigglers. You’ll need one pound to take care of a half pound of kitchen waste per day. You can order them through lawn and garden catalogs. Earth worms are not composting worms.

Worms need moisture, air, food, darkness and temperature between 50 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit.

Worm Bins

Worm bins can be made from wood or plastic. They can be store bought or homemade. The best depth for worm bins is 12 to 18 inches. Worms need air to breath, so remember to make holes in your bin (on top or lower sides). A good size for a worm bin is 1 foot deep, 2 feet wide and 3 feet long.

Bedding

Bedding in your bin must be able to retain moisture and allow air to circulate. Use shredded newspaper or cardboard and/or peat moss.

Diets

Feed your worms:

  • Coffee Grounds
  • Cornmeal
  • Crushed Egg Shells
  • Fruit and Vegetable Peelings
  • Shredded Newspaper
  • Tea Bags

Do not feed them:

  • Animal Bones
  • Butter
  • Cheese
  • Fish & Poultry
  • Glossy Colored Paper
  • Greasy Foods
  • Mayonnaise
  • Meat
  • Salad Dressing