Down Under Redworm Farm

Newly re-designed for more effective functionality and better use of raw materials

Comprised of a slightly tapered, top breeding box (measuring 23” x 15” x 7”) and a bottom catcher tray

The sturdy breeding box features a hinged lid and air slits to keep colony dark, damp and oxygenated

Perforations at the bottom of the box allow liquid tea to drain into lower tray

Liquid flows into the central part of the tray where it can emptied via the drainage port collected into a receptacle, then diluted and used as natural fertilizer

Food scraps are placed in the top portion where the redworms reside and breed - castings are harvested from this level

Removable legs elevate unit off of ground while allowing for compact storage during the cooler months

May be used indoors or outdoors (in full shade) during the temperate months

Kind of Worms:  Use only top feeding redworms such as red wrigglers – 1000 should be enough to start, as they will reproduce. We do not recommend growing bottom feeding varieties in this system, as they could escape the feeding level through the perforations and end up in the liquid catchment tray.   Examples of bottom feeding worms include nightcrawlers and earthworms. 

Climate: As outdoor temperatures start to drop to 40˚F and below, activity in your worm bin will decline considerably. Bring the unit indoors so that it may be used continuously.  If properly setup, the system will not emit foul odors. Place in a cool dark area such as the basement, laundry room or pantry.  Garages and sheds are fine as long as the temperature remains above freezing. 

Castings: To harvest worm castings from the worm farm, withhold scraps from one side of the bin, placing all food on the other side.  Within a few days, the majority of worms will migrate to the side with the food scraps.  Redworms are negatively phototaxic and will shy away from bright light.  Before collecting your castings in a well-lit area, use a thick, moist cloth to cover the side with the food - the darkness should keep most of the worms on the feeding side while you gather the finished poop from the illuminated side.  Scoop gently so as not to harm any remaining worms.