Red Wiggler Composting Worms 0.25 lb

Red Wigglers (Eisenia foetida), a.k.a. red worms, tiger worms, brandling worms, manure worms and many others, are the "work horse" when it comes to vermicomposting!  Unlike night crawlers and common earthworms, they do not tend to wander and will multiply easily, when given proper care.  They are surface/sub-surface dwellers, found in the top 8-12" of soil.  An established colony will consume from half, up to their full body weight in scraps, daily!  They are very versatile, preferring temperatures from 40-85 degrees, but will survive Texas extremes, with simple techniques (rule of 24's.)  They like very high moisture, but will not survive in standing water.  Prolific breeders, because they are true hermaphrodites, under ideal conditions, will produce ~ 10 young per mature adult, each week.  A pH range of 5.5-8.5 is preferable, (water being neutral at 7.)  This species is well suited for bins as well as outdoor composting.  Worms are sold locally in recycled, fully compostable boxes.  When you receive your worms, gently empty the box into your bin or compost pile, then unfold it.  Place the unfolded box over the worms.  This will hide them from the light and hungry birds.  The box will also have beneficial microbes and organisms on and in it.  The wigglers will make their way into the bin or pile within the hour.  If you are releasing them outdoors, it is less stressful if they are released just before sunrise.