Raising nightcrawlers (European or Canadian) in a bin above your red wigglers inside the Worm Factory 360 is tricky but possible with some considerations!
Can You Raise Nightcrawlers Above Red Wigglers?
✅ Yes, but…
Different needs: Nightcrawlers prefer a deeper, looser soil-like environment, while red wigglers thrive in shallow composting layers.
Different diets: Red wigglers process kitchen scraps quickly, while nightcrawlers prefer decaying organic material and high-carbon food.
Temperature considerations: If conditions get too warm for nightcrawlers (above 70°F), they may struggle.
How to Make It Work in the Worm Factory 360
✔ Bottom Bins → Red Wigglers (for composting) ✔ Top Bin → Nightcrawlers (for growing/breeding)
💡 Tip: Keep the top bin’s bedding looser & more fibrous to accommodate nightcrawlers.
Soft fruit & veggie scraps (smaller amounts than red wigglers)
Crushed eggshells (for calcium)
❌ Avoid: Too many wet food scraps (can create anaerobic conditions).
Potential Challenges:
Nightcrawlers may burrow down to the lower trays (mixing with red wigglers).
Moisture balance: Nightcrawlers prefer slightly drier conditions than red wigglers.
Escape risk: Nightcrawlers tend to roam, so a secure lid is a must!
Alternative Setup Idea
If you want to breed nightcrawlers efficiently, you may have better success keeping them in a separate, deeper bin with looser bedding instead of stacking them over red wigglers.