Your Guide to Worm Farming

In the pursuit of a more sustainable lifestyle, many are turning to worm farming as an eco-friendly and rewarding endeavour. Not only is worm farming an excellent way to recycle organic waste but it also yields nutrient-rich compost for gardens, making it a win-win for both the environment and gardening enthusiasts. Here are 8 steps to get your worm farming journey underway.

Selecting the right location

Choose a suitable spot for your worm farm. Ideally, it should be placed in a shaded area to avoid extreme temperatures. Ensure it is easily accessible for adding food scraps and harvesting worm castings. A covered space, such as a garage or shed, can also protect the farm from heavy rain.

Acquiring your worm farming system

There are various worm farming systems available, including stackable trays and composting bins. Research and select a system that fits your needs and space available.. The most popular choice is a stackable tray system, which is low-maintenance and perfect for beginners.

Choosing the right worms

Red wriggler worms (Eisenia fetida) and tiger worms (Eisenia andrei) are the most common types used in worm farms. Obtain these worms from your local worm farm supplier or online store. Start with about 500-1000 worms for a small farm, they will quickly multiply as they settle in.

Creating the bedding

Prepare the bedding material for your worms. Shredded newspaper or cardboard, coconut coir, and well-rotted compost all make excellent choices. Dampen the bedding and fluff it up before placing it in the bottom tray of your worm farm.

Introducing the worms

Place the worms on top of the bedding and let them settle in for a day before adding any food scraps. This allows them to acclimate to their new environment.

Feeding your worms

Worms are voracious eaters but have specific preferences. They thrive on fruit and vegetable scraps, coffee grounds, tea bags, and crushed eggshells. Avoid feeding them meat, dairy, oily or salty foods, as these can attract pests and create odours.

Maintaining the worm farm

Regularly monitor the moisture levels in the bedding. Worms need a moist environment, so if it appears dry, add a little water. Remember not to overfeed the worms; add new food only when the previous batch is mostly consumed.

Harvesting worm castings

Over time, the worms will convert the food scraps into nutrient-rich castings, often referred to as "black gold." Harvest the castings by either moving the worms to a new tray or pushing the contents of the tray to one side and adding fresh bedding and food to the other. The worms will gradually migrate to the new food source, leaving behind the finished compost. Using the tap at the bottom of your worm farm system, collect the worm juice into a jug. Dilute with water before adding to the garden.

By creating a worm farm, you're not just managing organic waste; you're also contributing to the health of the soil and the environment. Embrace this sustainable lifestyle choice and enjoy the benefits of gardening with nutrient-rich worm castings while reducing your carbon footprint.