Bedding Materials

The compost worms's natural habitat is in piles of fallen leaves or manure above the soil surface. The best material to use for bedding is shredded paper placed three to six inches deep in the bottom of the box.

Black and white (not colored) newspaper is the most readily available and easy to use bedding material. Tear it into strips about one inch wide and moisten until it is as damp as a wrung-out sponge. Cow or horse manure, or peat moss, can be used to lighten bedding and absorb excess moisture. A handful or two of soil, ground limestone or well-crushed eggshells every few months are good for providing grit and calcium.

Make sure the bedding material remains damp (not soggy) at all times. Worms need moisture to live, reproduce, and process compost. Always check the moisture level of the bedding weekly, especially during winter months and hot summer periods.

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