D & S Worm Farm

Care and Feeding Instructions for Your Worms

The following are our instructions on how to care for the worms we sell. If you are successful in keeping the worms alive, then we are sure you will be pleased with the results in sales.

1. Nightcrawlers and Red worms are cared for in much the same way. We recommend that you use whatever container you might have available, or possibly build a box of untreated wood. Something between a five gallon to two bushel in size will work fine. In order to maintain good drainage, drill the bottom of the container with a 3/16 bit in several places. Line the container with a weed blocker, fiberglass screen, or ev en newspaper to prevent the worms from crawling out of those same holes.
2. For the best results with Nightcrawlers and Red worms in compost, we use a 50/50 mixture consisting of Canadian Peat Moss and Rabbit or Cow Manure. For the European Nightcrawlers compost we use a 75/25 mixture consisting of Canadian Peat Moss and Rabbit or Cow Manure. We strongly suggest that you use only commercially processed manure to avoid problems with pH or parasites. This type of manure is available in most garden shops. To mix the compost, thoroughly combine the manure and the peat moss with just enough water so that when a handfull is squeezed, a few drops of water will be pressed out. Never use water that is over 80 degrees Farenheit in temperature to mix with.
3. Ok the big day has arrived, you receive your shipment of healthy D & S Wormfarm Worms. Now that you have your containers set and your compost mixed and ready, you need to divide the order into several containers to avoid crowding and encourage healthy growth. Try to limit the worms to 1/2 pound or 500 worms or less per 5 gallon container, depending on the container's size. Dig out a hole in the center of each container to be used and divide the worms up into each one. Then cover the worms with compost, and cover the top with weedblock or newspaper. We like the weed block because it lasts longer and can be reused without breaking down. Leave the new arrivals alone for a day or two so they can settle in to their new quarters. Lightly water the surface of the bedding and feed lightly after the second day. Feed only what the worms will consume in a day, two days at most to avoid mold. We feed a combination of ground corn, corn meal, and the well known Purina Worm Chow. Again, feed only what they will consume in that 1 to 2 day range. Always replace the cover after feedings to prevent excessive drying of the beds.
4. Most important of all! Leave a light on over the beds at all times. Otherwise the worms will crawl out!
5. For you folks reselling commercially, we try to maintain a compost temperature range between 60 and 80 degrees F. If you cup the Louisiana Nightcrawlers for resale, do not refrigerate, but keep at room temperture.

Visit our composting information page! We also have information on Worm Castings and Worm Tea on our Organic Gardening Page.

We welcome any and all questions about our worms, so feel free to email (stevelittle@ptmc.net) or call us at 336-752-2816. We appreciate your business.

Worm Farm - Worm Care - Aquarium Worms - Night Crawlers - Red Worms - European Night Crawlers - Organic Gardening