[Karl]

For some more detailed tips on composting using wormeries:

> EcoSpace.cc - Worm Composting Made Simple

After putting a layer of bedding on the bottom of the bin (slightly dampened, to provide the initial moisture necessary for a happy worm habitat), add a bit of sand or potting soil (which contains sand) if you have some available. The sand is simply a booster for the worms digestive system- the abrasiveness helps them break down the food they’re digesting.This is an optional step but does often prove helpful. You can then add the worms and begin feeding them your compost. By putting the food underneath the bedding layer when you add it, you can keep fruit flies from being attracted to your nifty new composting system.

Avoid putting meat, fish, oils (butter), and vinegars in your worm bin. Citrus fruits are okay, but only in low quantities, as they are extremely acidic. Dairy products, bread crusts, tea bags, coffee grinds, eggshells and vegetables are all a definite yes. If your bin starts to smell it probably means there’s an imbalance in the base-acid, nitrogen-carbon ratio. Try adding ground eggshells (very basic), or more carbon (newspaper), as the most common problem is high acidity levels (most of the food humans consume these days is acidic). Worms will have an easier time eating somewhat decomposed food, so if possible keep your scraps in an airtight container and feed them every few days. If the worms appear to be crawling up the sides of the bin, it means there’s too much water in the mix, or the environment is too acidic. Once you figure out a good balance, worms are generally pretty low maintenance. Experimentation is almost inevitable.