Anyone had success keeping a worm farm? I saw some videos on youtube and they look pretty easy. I'm wondering if I keep it indoors at 70 degrees winter, 80 in summer, will it be cool enough for the worms to thrive?
Hey Woolybugger,
I have raised worms for the last two years and can give some advise if you like. I personally have Red Wigglers and European Night crawlers.
First question: What do you plan to use them for? (Composting, castings, fishing, to sell, etc.)
Second Question: What kind of container do you plan on keeping them in. (Homemade bin, flow-thru, a purchased system like a Worm Factory) The system you chose can make a difference in your plans for raising them.
Keeping them in 70-80 degree temps is perfect. This is their prime temp to eat and breed.
How many are you looking to start off with? You can start with 1-2 lbs (about 1000-2000) and within a year (under perfect conditions) you could easily double to quadruple your worms.
If you want, I have several link to places with good info on the worms and a couple link on how to build different type of bins. I personally have a Worm Factory 360, 6 rubbermaid type bins 5-14 gals (I also gave away (4) 5gal bins with about 250-400 worms each) and I have a 55gal drum I've made into a flow-thru which has about 5-6lbs (5000-6000) worms in it.
I keep all my worms in the house except a 55gal FT and a bin in the greenhouse. They will not smell, and if they do smell, SOMETHING IS WRONG. Most of the time when there is smell, it's because they have been over fed.
For every pound of worms, they can eat about a pound of food a week.
Let me know if I can help with any questions.