Getting Started with Worm Composting | Beginner’s Guide to Vermicomposting

If you’ve been thinking about composting but don’t have the space—or want faster results—worm composting (also called vermicomposting) is the perfect solution. Worms transform food scraps into a nutrient-rich soil amendment that gardeners call “black gold.”

In this guide, I’ll walk you through the four essentials of worm composting so you can confidently set up your own system.

The Four Essentials of Worm Composting

Every worm bin relies on four key components:

Container (worm bin)

Bedding

Waste materials (worm food)

Composting worms

Once you understand these basics, you’ll be ready to set up your own bin.

Choosing a Worm Bin

There are several options for containers:

DIY bin from a plastic storage tote (most affordable).

Advanced bins with drainage and airflow features.

When choosing your bin:

Keep it dark – Worms are sensitive to light. Use an opaque container.

Go wide, not deep – A shallow bin with more surface area provides better oxygen flow.

Add airflow – Drill holes in the lid and sides. For extra protection against soggy bedding, drill a few drainage holes in the bottom and place the bin on a tray.

Bedding: The Worms’ Habitat

Bedding materials act as both home and moisture balance for your worms. Good options include:

Shredded cardboard or newspaper

Coconut coir

Fall leaves

Aged straw

Peat moss (less sustainable, so use sparingly)

Aim for moisture levels similar to a wrung-out sponge.

Pro tip: Mix bedding with moist food scraps and let it sit for a week before adding worms. This preps the bin with microbes—the real food worms love.

Feeding Your Worms

Not all scraps belong in the worm bin.

YES (in moderation):

Fruit & veggie scraps (limit citrus)

Bread, pasta, rice, potatoes

Coffee grounds & tea bags

Eggshells (crushed)

Aged animal manure

Shredded cardboard & paper

NO:

Meat, dairy, oils, or grease

Human/pet waste

Harsh chemicals

Plastics or non-biodegradables

For best results, allow scraps to partially decompose before adding them. Worms feed on the microbial soup that forms as food breaks down.

Composting Worms: Meet the Red Wigglers

Not all worms can handle composting. Ordinary earthworms won’t thrive in a bin—you need epigeic worms, which naturally live in rich organic matter.

The best choice for beginners is the Red Wiggler

Thrives in warm, crowded conditions

Reproduces quickly

Efficient composters

They typically cost $50-$60 per pound, and just one pound is sufficient to establish a thriving colony over time.

👉 Shop Red Wigglers here

Building & Setting Up Your Worm Bin

1. Basic Bin

A simple plastic storage tote with ventilation holes—affordable and effective.

2. Deluxe Bin

A setup with a drainage reservoir to prevent soggy bedding and collect liquid compost (worm tea).

3. Open Systems

Best for advanced composters who prefer natural airflow and easy access.

Final Thoughts

With just four essentials—container, bedding, food scraps, and worms—you’ll be on your way to producing rich compost for your garden. Start simple, and as you gain experience, explore more advanced systems and feeding techniques.

Worm composting is easy, fun, and incredibly rewarding. Your garden (and the planet) will thank you!

✅ Ready to take the next step? Order your Red Wigglers today and start composting right at home!