Getting Started

First, your Super Composting Red Wigglers need a good home. Any type of container will do really — you can recycle something in your house (toy box, trash can, pail) — there are lots of different options, including a simple composting pile in your yard or garden.

It all depends on how much waste you produce and how often you want to feed your worms. (They can go weeks without eating. Very hearty!)

Drainage is the most important factor! Bins must also be covered to keep out light and to keep moisture level consistent.

Here are some pluses and minuses for common worm composting options:

Wood Bin

Plus: Fun to build and more aesthetic, this is Wonder Worman’s bin of choice.  It's great for absorbing moisture and has lots of drainage.  If you are building your own, make sure the holes are 3 - 5 inches apart on the bottom.  This also helps control humidity and makes it easy to collect the nutrient-rich “worm tea” when the bin is raised off the ground.
Minus: Will break down - won’t last forever. Of course, this biodegradability can also be viewed as plus, especially if the wood is sustainably harvested and/or recycled.

Plastic Bin

Plus: Typically lighter than wood and easier to move. Can last virtually forever. Many holes provide drainage, and raising the bin off the ground makes it easy to collect nutrient-rich worm tea (more holes are need with plastic than wood, because plastic doesn’t absorb moisture).
Minus:  Can create a lot of humidity and moisture.

Compost Pile

Plus: If you have the space and plenty of waste, piles can be great. You can just throw a bunch of food waste on the pile and let the worms do their thing.
Minus: Can’t be as easily insulated in the winter. Can’t collect worm tea.