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Steps
1
Select a location removed from direct sunlight. Drill two rows of ventilation holes just beneath the lid around the top edge of the bin, spacing holes 3-4 inches apart. Ensure holes are less than 1/4 inch in diameter to prevent worm escape.
2
Prepare bedding by shredding newspaper into fine strips (avoid glossy or bleached paper) and tearing corrugated cardboard into 3-4 inch pieces. Wet these materials until they have the consistency of a damp sponge, squeezing out excess water.
3
Layer the bin by adding 4-6 inches of damp newspaper, followed by a layer of cardboard pieces and 2-4 cups of ordinary garden soil. Add the red wigglers to the bin and cover them with a small layer of damp paper before closing the lid.
4
Feed the worms kitchen scraps such as oatmeal, cooked grains, coffee grounds, crushed eggshells, lettuce, squash, and most fruits (except citrus). Initially, add about one cup every other day in a corner, covering the scraps with newspaper. Tip: Pureeing food in a blender increases surface area and can speed up production.
5
Maintain the bin by ensuring the interior remains damp like a wrung-out sponge using a spray bottle. If contents become soggy or too densely packed, add handfuls of dry shredded newspaper. Keep the total material height between 6 to 8 inches to avoid excessive dampness.
6
Harvest the castings after about two months once the contents look black. Stop adding food for a few days, then place a favorite food like squash or oatmeal on one side of the bin. After a couple of days, the worms will migrate to the food, allowing you to scoop out the finished castings from the other side.