How to Make a Mini-Worm Composter
- 1). Purchase a 14 gallon plastic bin from your hardware store or even a variety store. You will also need to purchase an oven pan that is flat and large enough to sit under the plastic bin. Try to get an oven sheet that has at least a 1-inch raised lip.
- 2). Purchase red wiggler worms or night crawlers to place in your worm compost bin. These can be purchased through your local bait shop. Your local gardening club is another favorite source to go to for worms or for information on places that sell worms close to your location. All you need is 1 lb. of worms for this size bin.
- 3). Use a drill and a 1/4-inch drill bit to drill drainage holes on the bottom edge of the plastic bin. The holes should be drilled around the bottom perimeter 1/2-inch from the bottom of the bin. Use a 1/2-inch drill bit to make ventilation holes in the lid of the plastic container.
- 4). Place an old sheet into the bottom of the plastic bin. This will prevent the drainage holes from becoming blocked by the compost material. Place the plastic bin in the oven pan. The oven pan will act as a tray to collect the drainage of the compost. Often called worm tea, the drainage is a great pick-me-up for plants when added like water to their soil.
- 5). Place thin strips of newspaper, straw, grass clippings or other dead organic matter into the worm bin. Add in 2 inches of organic topsoil on top of the dry material, and enough water to moisten the soil and allow it to soak in overnight.
- 6). Add your worms to the worm bin. Place the lid on the container until you start adding more organic matter to your worm bin. Worms need time to adjust to their new home, so a light left on over the bin will keep them inside.
- 7). Feed the worms only a little at a time at first. You can add any type of organic matter like apple cores, vegetable scraps and even coffee grounds. Do not add meat or milk products as these will only spoil. You should also add some dry leaves or shredded newspaper as well.
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