What worms are best for composting?

The best types of worms for vermicomposting are red wigglers (Eisenia fetida) and redworms (Lumbricus rubellus). These two species make great worms for the compost bin because they prefer a compost environment to plain soil, and they are very easy to keep.

Can compost worms survive winter?

Although worms can’t survive freezing temperatures, they lay eggs that are encased and protected by very small cocoons. They can survive through winter to emerge as tiny baby worms, once temperatures warm up again. Fortunately, the eggs laid before their demise provide sufficient replacements next spring.

How many worms do I need to start composting?

For beginners we recommend starting with 1 pound of worms for every 4 square feet of your worm bin’s top surface area. Experienced vermicomposters can start with more worms and we recommend 1 pound of worms for every 1 square foot of you worm composter’s top surface area.

How long do composting worms live?

Worms can live for about one year in the worm bin. If a worm dies in your bin, you probably will not notice it. Since the worm’s body is about 90% water, it will shrivel up and become part of the compost rather quickly.

Can you use regular worms for composting?

The best kind of earthworms to use are red worms, also known as “red wigglers” and “manure worms”. Even a small bin of red worms will yield pounds of rich compost, also known as worm castings. Finished compost can be harvested in as little as two to three months. Redworms are extremely prolific.

What temperature do compost worms need?

Redworms need controlled temperature, controlled moisture content, controlled aeration and proper pH. Temperature: Redworms tolerate a wide range of temperatures, however, the ideal temperature is between 55 – 77 degrees F.

Will red wigglers survive in the garden?

Red worms are excellent at breaking down decaying organic materials, creating a nutrient-rich substance for your garden. With the addition of plant scraps or composting trenches around the garden, the red worms will not only thrive but will turn the garden soil into a healthy environment for your growing garden.

How fast do worms multiply?

The breeding cycle is approximately 27 days from mating to laying eggs. Worms can double in population every 60 days.

Is worm composting worth it?

Vermicompost is much like other kinds of compost. There is no scientific evidence to show that it is a superior product, as so many claim. On the other hand it is a very suitable organic source to add to gardens.

Where does worm composting take place in Canada?

Worm Composting Canada is a small vermicomposting business based in Waterloo Region (Ontario, Canada).

Is it worth it to compost with worms?

Composting worms speeds up the composting process. New worm bin owners tend to make mistakes. Once you get the hang of vermicomposting, you will love it! Reducing trash, saving the earth, and creating free fertilizer makes worm composting worthwhile.

Where can I buy red wiggler worms in Canada?

Worm Composting Canada is a small vermicomposting business based in Waterloo Region (Ontario, Canada). We currently sell Red Wiggler Worms ( Eisenia fetida) for worm composting, fishing and live food.

How are red wiggler worms used in composting?

Our red wigglers compost worms are shipped in a homemade breathable bag with organic peat moss to let air flow through while retaining moisture. We also add a snack for the road to ensure that the red wiggler worms arrive alive, healthy and active.