Setting Up a Nightcrawler Worm Bin

Setting Up a Nightcrawler Worm Bin

1. Choosing a Container

You can use a plastic storage bin, wooden box, or even an old cooler. Make sure:
✅ It’s at least 12-18 inches deep for nightcrawlers to burrow.
✅ There are drainage holes on the bottom to prevent excess moisture.
✅ You drill air holes on the sides for proper ventilation.
✅ It’s kept in a shaded, cool place (55-77°F is ideal).

2. Preparing the Bedding

A mix of different bedding materials works best. A simple mix:
🔹 50% shredded newspaper/cardboard
🔹 25% coconut coir or peat moss (pH neutralized)
🔹 25% aged compost or leaf litter
🔹 Keep it moist but not soggy (like a wrung-out sponge).

3. Adding the Nightcrawlers

• Gently place your European nightcrawlers (Eisenia hortensis) or Canadian nightcrawlers (Lumbricus terrestris) on top of the bedding.
• Let them burrow naturally into the bedding (they don’t like light).

4. Feeding Routine

• Start with small amounts of food (vegetable scraps, coffee grounds, crushed eggshells).
• Bury food under bedding to prevent fruit flies.
• Check every few days—only add more when most of the last batch is eaten.

5. Maintenance Tips

✅ Moisture: Keep bedding damp—if it dries out, mist with water.
✅ Aerate bedding weekly to prevent it from becoming compacted.
✅ Remove worm castings (worm poop) every 2-3 months and replace bedding.
✅ Check for escapees—if worms try to leave, it may be too wet, too acidic, or too hot.

Would you like help troubleshooting common worm problems? 😊