Guide to Composting and Worm Farms

PROBLEM CAUSE SOLUTION Unwanted pests Too dry Not enough oxygen Too acidic Fill small containers with water and place each worm farm leg into the containers. Add extra water and keep bedding moist. Make sure your worm farm is located in a well shaded and cool location. Add dolomite, garden lime or egg shells to balance the pH. Small flies Rotting food Too much food Exposed food Remove rotting food. Adjust pH level. Reduce the amount of food. Cut the food into small pieces. Worms will not eat large food waste. Slow to break down Too much food Not enough worms Reduce the amount of food. Cut the food into small pieces. Worms will not eat large food waste. Purchase more worms for your farm. Smelly worm farm Too much food Not enough worms Rotting food Remove rotting food. Reduce the amount of food. Purchase more worms for your farm. Aerate by stirring gently. No worm tea or castings More time required Allow your worm farm time to break down scraps. Depending on the size of your farm and the number of worms you have, it can take a few months before you can harvest castings. Worms are dying Too dry Too wet Too hot Not enough food Add extra water and keep bedding moist. Remove from direct sunlight and place in shade. Add shredded paper. Feed more often. Troubleshooting your Worm Farm 9