Worm composting - Additional Information

I wanted to add this info., for any of you who might consider making a worm composter. After setting our bin completely up, I found a piece of paper in the box the worms had come in. It had basic information on it, but I found one thing especially important: when they arrive, they will need a drink! When we got our bin all together, there was about 1/4" of water in the bottom of the bin. I was a little concerned that this would be a problem. In fact, the worms all went right to the bottom, and by the night time, the water had been absorbed by them! They were thirsty. They are shipped in "bone dry peat" which, according to the paperwork, protects the worms during travel time. It reduces the chance that they will freeze or overheat. But when they arrive, they want to get wet.

It's really fun to watch them. They are producing castings (soil) already, and are breaking down the materials in the bin. I am absorbed with them! =) I need to find out how often to put scraps in the bin. They've got quite a bit to work with at the moment, but there are 500 of them, and they apparently are capable of doubling their numbers every 90 days!

Worm composting - They're Here!!

At long, long last, the worm compost bin has become a reality. After finally getting our bin together, complete with drilled air holes (thanks, hubby!) we attempted to get red wiggler worms from our local bait shops. They informed us that they are also trying to get their hands one some. Funnily enough, when I mentioned that we wanted them for composting, one bait shop guy responded, "I know, I know." Ha! Guess we're not that odd around here after all. Anyhow, I went online and ordered 500 red wigglers from Uncle Jim's Worm Farm in Spring Grove, PA. I realized that once I had placed the order, I really had to get things together for this thing!! I put our bin out and collected all of our appropriate table scraps in it (fruit and veggie left-overs, but no citrus, etc.) Then we waited....

They arrived today. Here's what the package looked like:

The first step in preparing a worm composting bin is to find a bin with a lid. The size will depend on you. Ours is a former bird seed box cum rock holder. It's clear, which I love, has a lid that opens 1/2 way, and has a carrying handle. Perfect!

The first thing we did was to hand-shred a bunch of newspaper. There's no accounting for taste, but the worms allegedly love it! 

We filled the bin about 3/4 full.

My daughter went out to the back yard and collected a handful or two of both soil and sand, and a few leaves.

Add the soil mix and mix it into the newspaper.

The worms! 500 red wigglers heading for their new home.

Nature girl!!

We watered down the newspaper/soil mix. It really lowered the stuff way down. Once we placed the worms on top, we shredded some more newspaper and gently placed it on top. We then made a space in one corner of the box, and added our collected kitchen scraps. They are getting a lovely mix of cantelope melon rinds, celery, and other good stuff. I have read that we can add coffee grounds, which we have plenty of in this house. I also read that we should have usable rich soil in about 3-4 months. 

I promised to bring this bin to DD's school, and now I want to keep it! But I get it back at the end of June when school ends. I think I'll keep it for a few days, anyhow. =)

Clyde. The first worm to be named. (grin)