Composting with Critters
Studying about composting is a lot more fun when you use one of nature's
best composters, the redworm.
Redworms are great indoor composters. Worm bins are easy to set up
and take care of. They don't smell either.
Your Worm Bin
A worm bin can be any size and made of any type of material. Shallow
(eight to nine inches) containers are best. Be sure there are drainage
holes in the bottom and holes for air on the side. Be sure to cover
these holes from the inside with fiberglass screen or old pantyhose
to keep the worms in the box.
The Bedding
Worms need bedding to live in. The best and easiest to use is old shredded
newspapers. It takes about four to six pounds to fill a 2 ft. by 2 ft.
box. Moisture is also important. Worms need it to help them breathe.
Keep in mind that a worm is about 75 to 90 percent water. Pre-moisten
the bedding before you put in the worms. A general rule of thumb is
to use about three parts water to 1 part bedding. So , if you use four
pounds of shredded newspaper, you need to add 12 pounds of water (1
pint = 1 pound).
The Worms
The best worms to use are called red wigglers. These worms can handle
the warm temperatures in a home. How many worms you need to start your
worm composter depends on the amount of garbage you think you will generate
each day.
Generally, it takes about two pounds of worms to "eat" about 1 pound
of vegetable waste a day. Once established, worms are heavy feeders.
Worms do best at temperatures between 55 degrees F and 75 degrees F.
Worms will eat a variety of vegetable waste. Meat waste should not be
used in the bin.
Caring for Your Worm Bin
To care for your worm bin:
 | Watch the moisture levels (don't let it get too dry).
| Provide food.
| Keep it at the proper temperature.
| Occasionally removing the castings
(worm manure) that are produced and add fresh bedding. The castings
that are produced can be used in making potting soil or added to your
garden soil.
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