Turn Food Scraps into Garden Gold: Vermicomposting with Earthworms
Looking for a sustainable, simple, and surprisingly fun way to turn kitchen scraps into nutrient-rich compost? Vermicomposting might be just what your garden—and the planet—needs. At its heart is a wriggly little garden hero: the red wiggler worm (earthworm).
What is Vermicomposting?
Vermicomposting is the process of using worms to break down organic waste, like fruit and vegetable scraps, into a rich, dark compost known as worm castings. These castings are packed with beneficial microbes and nutrients that plants love. Unlike traditional composting, vermicomposting can be done year-round, indoors or out, with minimal space and odor.
Why Red Wigglers?
Red wigglers (Eisenia fetida) are the ideal worm for composting. They thrive in the top layer of organic matter, reproduce quickly, tolerate a wide range of conditions, and are incredibly efficient at breaking down food scraps, paper, and other compostable materials.
Benefits of Vermicomposting:
- Reduces household waste by up to 30%
- Produces high-quality compost for houseplants, vegetable gardens, and flower beds
- Takes up very little space—even apartment dwellers can do it!
- Offers a fun and educational activity for kids and families
How to Get Started
All you need is a bin, some bedding (like shredded newspaper or coconut coir), food scraps, and of course—red wigglers! Feed your worms small amounts of produce scraps (avoid meat, dairy, and oily foods), and they’ll get to work transforming your waste into garden gold.
A basic setup includes:
- A ventilated container (plastic totes work great)
- Moist bedding material
- A small starter population of red wigglers
- A dark, cool location to keep your bin (like a basement, laundry room, or garage)
Red Wigglers Now Available In-Store!
We’re excited to offer live red wigglers for sale right here at Wenke Greenhouses! Whether you’re a seasoned composter or just starting out, our red wigglers are the perfect addition to your sustainable lifestyle. Stop in to pick up your worms today. Limited availability.
