Worms are amazing creatures.  The “Red Wiggler” composting worm 

can take care of your left overs that have stayed too long as left overs. 

Although worms, or microorganisms first, eat organic material, 

avoid meat/fish, dairy, oils and too much citrus.  These can be broken down 

over time but can attract unwanted pests.

  

Worms need a place to live (bins) and bedding to live in.  Preferably, 

the bins should have a lid and be a minimum of 30 cms. (12 ins.) deep with 

side air holes and bottom drainage holes.  This drainage liquid can stain, so 

a catch basin under your bin is helpful.   Common bedding materials can be 

coconut fibre (COIR), peat moss, cardboard, newspaper or paper and must 

be moist like a dampened cloth.

Worms are eating machines and can ingest ½ their body weight a day if 

food is small enough.  After they have digested this food, they poop it out, 

and, voila, you have the “black gold” called vermicompost.  Vermicompost is a  

combination of castings, microorganisms, decomposing “leftovers” and 

bedding.  It is a nutritionally rich organic fertilizer and a great additive to 

any growing medium. As well, you can make exceptional teas and brews 

from it.

There is more to say, but you are ready to start vermicomposting so

good luck.

- David Greig, MEd, HTR, Cert. Organic Land Care Professional, Cert. Soil 

Steward, Master Composter

Has had worms for over 25 years but don’t tell his partner.