Archive for April, 2010

We get asked this question over and over. What is the difference between worms found in the yard and garden and worms used for composting?

Believe it or not, all worms are not created equal. There are three main types of worms, each one has different characteristics that make them unique. These unique traits are why some worms take to bins better than others. You can’t just go out in your yard, dig up some worms, and expect them to go to work for you in your new worm bin. Chances are you may not end up with great composting worms, and you may even find that the worms are escaping from the bin and do not appreciate being spoiled like our little friends the red wigglers. With an understanding of the different types of worms, you will gain a better perspective into the art of vermiculture.

Each one of the 4400 + named species of worms on earth can be broken down into these three main categories:

Anecic (Greek for “out of the earth”) – these are burrowing worms that come to the surface at night to drag food down into their permanent burrows deep within the mineral layers of the soil. The common nightcrawler (also known as Canadian Nightcrawler, Dew Worm & Common Earthworm) is in this category. These worms build vertical permanent burrows that extend over six feet below the earth’s surface. Believe it or not, but these worms can actually recognize their own burrows and return to it day after day. These worms feed on decaying litter and therefore must visit the surface on a regular basis. They are solitary worms and do not like living in high worm populations.

Endogeic (Greek for “within the earth”) – these are also burrowing worms but their burrows are typically more shallow and they feed on the organic matter already in the soil. These worms are the only type of worm that will actually eat soil as well as decaying organic material. These worms rarely come to the earth’s surface and spend most of their time underground in their lateral burrow systems.

Epigeic (Greek for “upon the earth”) – these worms live in the surface litter and feed on decaying organic matter. They do not have permanent burrows. These “decomposers” are the type of worm used in vermicomposting. These are our special little garbage men that work for food. They thrive in large groups and are surface feeders, not burrowers. Red Wigglers & European Nightcrawlers are both categorized in this group of composting worms. Becuase they do not build burrows, they do well in worm bins and appreciate the constant food source and moist environments that we provide for them.

I hope this helps you to gain a little understanding of the workings of earthworms and why purchasing the right kind of worm for your bin is important to your success.

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Come visit us at the Lake Stevens Business Expo located at the Lake Stevens High School, 2908 113th Ave NE, Lake Stevens, WA 98258 on Saturday April 24, 2010 from 10 am – 3 pm. This event is sponsored by the Lake Stevens Chamber of Commerce.

Come visit us and find out more about composting with worms and learn how to use a stacking tray worm bin and the new Worm Inn. Learn about the different kinds of composting worms available and bring your questions.

Live in Snohomish County and need worms? We are now taking orders for worms to be picked up at this event. Contact us for details. Show Case Lake Stevens is free to the public. Print out a ticket and present it at the event to be entered into a special drawing.

NW Wigglers Show Case Lake Stevens Tickets – CLICK HERE, then click on NW Wigglers to download

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There is no better way to control pests in your garden than to employ your own army of soldiers. Beneficial insects work for you to control the bugs that eat your seedlings, spread disease in your plants, and make even the best gardeners frown.

Most people have heard of cutworms eating seedlings, aphids destroying prize flowers, and whiteflies invading greenhouses. But most people want to find an organic way to rid themselves of these bugs without poisoning their yards and gardens with pesticides.

Beneficial insects provide a natural way to keep these pests under control and your garden growing beautifully all season long. Northwest Wigglers is proud to offer you more choices for organic gardening and now offers beneficial insects to keep your gardens safe, and your thumbs greener than ever.

You can view some of the insects we offer under Beneficial Insects in our shopping cart. Click here to find out more.

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