@jamisonbrooks ... It's said that a worm will eat half its weight every day so it depends on the size of the bin and the number of lbs. of worms in there. I harvest castings only when I need them which is when I make compost tea or a starter mix for seedlings.........Donald
What's your opinion on the Worm Tower? We decided to give it a try because it's seems to require less maintenance (no turning, watering, or filtering) and we needed something a bit bear proof, even though I have no doubt if the bear was hungry enough it would dig the tower out.
@webcajun LOL !! didn't quite factor in the size of your garden, I guess it would be expensive. We have a small garden, it really didn't cost us more than $6.00 for the end caps to the pipes. We used some french drain pipes left over from when our house was built, that the construction people just tossed to the side. We didn't read/hear anything about not using them. And the worms, well there are plenty of those wiggling around our yard and don't seem to have any problems finding the food.
I am canadian..can I put this kind of bin outside here? I mean..will it be ok in the winter? And do they not escape out the drain hole? or did you put in a piece of screen? Someone also said save the liquid that drains..it is called "worm tea" and is apparently AMAZING fertilizer as well?
@TheMrsVolfie ... I don't think this type of setup will work in Canada, the worms and castings will freeze during the winter. Some may crawl out but most stary cause you're feeding them. I don't use the drippings, I use the castings to make tea......Donald
@ Webcajun I made myself a worm bin out of a plastic bin. Its all ready and now i am waiting for my new shippement of worms to arrive. My question is can i put my worm bin in the garage but it getts pretty hot here in GA. Is that goingto be ok or whats the most heat they can deal with. Thank you for all your help.
@Hectorsgarden1 ...I have mine under a shade tree and they do ok. Make sure you have lots of air circulation. No sure how much heat they can take but I'm sure I'm pushing the limit.......Donald
@ webcajun Just wanted to know where did u buy your worms from? Cause i just bought some from a seller on ebay and i recieved them today and they where all dead. Very disappointed but things happen.
@ Webcajun I have been saving all of my scraps for my compost bin i have been building out of a 55 gallon drum. I have coffee banana peels orange peel all kind of scraps in the refrigerator should i let it sit out or just put it in the compost?
Leaves contain a lot of cellulose. Unless you have thousands of worms in your cooler it will take a while depending on the environment of the cooler you are using. I don't know how many worms you have but I would suggest using about 1,000 worms to start for a cooler. That's about 1 lb. of worms. If you want faster castings stick to foods that break down faster like banana peels and spinach and so forth. Tree products and grass products just take a while longer. Newspaper less time.
Hello Donald, I started one just like that but it did not turn out to well. I kept on wondering if it was because lack of air flow seeing how there is only one bottom hole.I ended up moving mine to a different location that I was able to put much more air flow in. How is yours working out?
@paulgem123 ...Mine is doing pretty good. They eat any and everything I throw in there. Don't forget to give them a little water now and then.....Donald
@paulgem123 Keep the bedding damp like Donald said and fluffy to allow oxygen to penetrate. Too much water and you will sufficate them as the oxygen can not penetrate the water. Stir the bedding once a week and keep out of sun. Alaways Keep a c:n ratio of 20:1. Donald's top was corragated allowing air to flow. As gasses go out the top it brings in fresh oxygen from the hole in the bottom. Awesomd Donald. Keep it up Pauly worm farming revealed .com
@SquirminVermin Thanks, I did that but it didn't work to well so I modified a soda cooler like you see in convenience stores and it seems to be working much better. I put screens in but I'm not sure how to harvest the castings. I'm trying to make it easy to harvest but I have not figured it out yet. Thanks for your help.
@paulgem123 Unless you have a tromel it will be painstakenly slow but not hard doing it the old fashioned way by dumping the contents out in a well lit area and scraping the casting off the top while your worms retreat down. They do not like the light. Be sure you remove the cocoons as well. You can have 1-4 worms per cocoon and they will not make it in your garden throughout the year if they are composting worms. I have some tips at my website that might help you.
@SquirminVermin I have a question; I have a lot of leaves in my worm bin, they are black and broken down, but not all the way. I did a manual inspection and they are doing real well. I had some that were 8' long and a lot of babies. Here is my question. How do I get it to fully compost? What am I doing wrong? Do I need more worms to do the job? It seems like I have a 20:1 mixture. I added 24 new red worms today. Thanks in advance
@paulgem123 Keep the bedding damp like Donald said and fluffy to allow oxygen to penetrate. Too much water and you will sufficate them as the oxygen can not penetrate the water. Stir the bedding once a week and keep out of sun. Alaways Keep a c:n ratio of 20:1. Donald's top was corragated allowing air to flow. As gasses go out the top it brings in fresh oxygen from the hole in the bottom. Awesome Donald. Keep it up Pauly worm farming revealed .com
@paulgem123 Keep the bedding damp like Donald said and fluffy to allow oxygen to penetrate. Too much water and you will sufficate them as the oxygen can not penetrate the water. Stir the bedding once a week and keep out of sun. Alaways Keep a c:n ratio of 20:1. Donald's top was corragated allowing air to flow. As gasses go out the top it brings in fresh oxygen from the hole in the bottom. Awesome Donald. Keep it up Pauly worm farming revealed .com
@paulgem123 Keep the bedding damp like Donald said and fluffy to allow oxygen to penetrate. Too much water and you will sufficate them as the oxygen can not penetrate the water. Stir the bedding once a week and keep out of sun. Alaways Keep a c:n ratio of 20:1. Donald's top was corragated allowing air to flow. As gasses go out the top it brings in fresh oxygen from the hole in the bottom. Awesome Donald. Keep it up Pauly worm farming revealed .com
@islandgardener ...I remove worms and castings and make a pile in bright light. Worms work their way down cause they don't like the light. Scrape the casings off the top until you start seeing more worms. Give a few minutes to work their way down again and scrape some more.....Donald
@MrGardenman101 ...worms are doing real good. I'm in that stage of the garden where I don't have very much to feed them so I may have to start putting more newspaper and cardboard in there. They are producing lots of castings for the tea this spring. When I checked them the other day they looked real healthy.....Donald
if you wanna keep the worms in the tub, you can put some green waste/scraps on top of the dirt, then wait a couple days or a week, then all the worms will be in the new green material, you can now move the green material off to the side for now while you take the fully composted material out. So now you dont have to buy more worms. just thought i'd share, i hope you like this info
This guy's awesome! People from Louisiana are so down to Earth. He's the kind of guy you would like to sit down, talk about life, and have a few beers with. God bless!
I just got my first pound of worms in today. I am keeping them inside in a plastic container...Not sure how happy the wife is going to be about this, but am eager to try some compost tea on the plants this spring. Thanks for the videos Donald!
ur worm setup may have changed since this video, but if u use 2 bungie cords, one at each end, to strap down ur led, u would not have to move that heavy 4x4 or cinder block when u check ur worms. My worm bed is set up the same way urs is. Great minds think alike. lol
@Ccoach55 ... I'll try to remember to include an update in one of the videos. Just fed em the other day with a tub full of greens from the garden. They looked happy. LOL.......Donald
how cold tolerant are earthworms? my plastic bin is under the carport.i live in south ga and we get a few 26 degree nights through the winter but hardly that cold for many nights in a row. just wondering if theyll be ok .
@myshizzleneal ... mine survived the winter exactly where you saw them in the video. Having yours in a plastic bin, maybe bring them inside on the really cold nights..........Donald
Hi, I am new subscriber. I enjoyed many of your clips today.
I must say "wow" what a smorgasbord of well made instruction clips.
I love your land and the space, plus your living enjoyment that comes with.
This cliip of worm Bed finally made me prompt to think and wanting to utilise one big shiny iron cast bathtub that has been sitting empty in my west garden for 7 years. Thank You for so many good tips of gardening and even cooking.
@LaMarAzura ... The purpose of the videos are to give you ideas, looks like it worked. lol Glad you enjoy the vids and let us know how the worm bed comes out. Make a cover for the bed and make sure any water drains out real well. Worms can’t swim to good, trust me on that one........Donald
Donald, You'll soon learn how very very time consuming skimming castings is. I've got a second unit I put on top then put my garbage in it and the worms transfer themselves. Much better.
what kind of worms are they? does it matter which kind I order? I was also wanting to use worms for when I go fishing as bait as well as for a worm compost bin.
@Alina674 ... Red Wigglers are recommended for composting and you can use em to catch fish. They're a little small but will fit on the hook........Donald
@blkscreen15 ... not stupid at all. Make a pile in bright light and the worms will work their way down. Scrape the castings off the top until you start seeing worms again then stop and wait for them to work their way down again. Real easy and it doesn't take as long as you'd think. Keep in mind, a little bit of castings go a long way. Only need 20% in a starter mix for seeds........Donald
I started w/ 1lb of red wigglers about 7 yrs ago. Got lots of worms. =) They get real lazy when the temperatures go above 80 degrees F. Newspaper print is not good unless it is non-toxic ink. Shredder? My Doberman & I play tug-a-war he shreds that cardboard or any other paper in a hurry. Fun for both of us. Peace all. Sent a message to you Donald before I saw this vid. Sry. Peace
@UnoRaza ... I don't feed them the "shinny" part of the newspaper. From what I hear from friends down on the gulf it's not good. A hurricane would really hurts us all......Donald
@webcajun How many pounds of worms did you use to get started ?
I'd have been paranoid about the hole getting stopped up and drowning the worms. I wonder if sand or rocks around the hole would be a good idea when you've just one hole like in a bath tub?
My "worm bin" is a cement culvert high on my property that never sees water. I've a Redwood that delivers tons of good composting materials. ;D) Seriously, you cannot get much better than Redwood, but they're a little messy when it's dry.
@UnoRaza ... I started out with 5 lbs. of worms. Got em from BestBuyWorms . com. Rocks or bricks would probably work out just fine. If you cover your bins you won't have to worry about rain getting in there unless you have a big wind storm like I did.......Donald
I have several 55 gallon plastic containers cut in half, added mulch. Each time I purchase worms for fishing, I bring the left overs home, and add them to my mulch containers. The worms multiply fast, turning my mulch into good highly fertile soil/plant food. I plant inside these containers, I have had an early girl produce up to 300 LBS of tomatoes on one plant. My drain holes are 3 inches from the bottom, works good in the hot summer months, and allows for enough drainage in the winter.
@webcajun , I learn something new always watching your Vids. I start from seed (no Transplant), when the tomatoe gets about 10-12 inches tall I fill in with mulch covering the whole plant except a couple of inches from the top, and a few leaves..gives it a big root system. This yr my garden is doing well, but moving soon to 11 acres, then have more space.
@webcajun , Yeah I was surprised to, I started by seed, no transplant. After 8 to 10 inches of growth I filled in the container covering the plant except a couple of inches from the top. This year my whole garden is doing well, soon moving to 11 acres, I need the garden space.
@webcajun ,@webcajun , Yeah I was surprised to, I started by seed, no transplant. After 8 to 10 inches of growth I filled in the container covering the plant except a couple of inches from the top. This year my whole garden is doing well, soon moving to 11 acres, I need the garden space.
@webcajun , Yeah I was surprised to, I started by seed, no transplant. After 8 to 10 inches of growth I filled in the container covering the plant except a couple of inches from the top. This year my whole garden is doing well, soon moving to 11 acres, I need the garden space.
@paulgem123 ... sounds like you didn't bury the food scraps when you put them in which accounts for the flies. Exactually why your worms died I haven't got a clue....... Donald
Hey Donald, is it ok to use pretty much any type of newspaper? Or should I only try and use black and white ink? I also have access to literally about a ton of old magazines. Just trying to figure out what I can use before I buy the worms.
Donald, Thank you for taking the time to make these videos. We really Appreciate it. We are wondering how things would be if we did this in a greenhouse. Thanks, Thom- Illinois
I'll do some updates this season. I did have some bad luck with one of the beds. During a storm, the top blew off the tube and just about filled with water, I lost quite a few worms. Had that not happened I would have more worms than I'd know what to do with........... Donald
Those worms are in hog heaven, in the land of plenty, Sir, you know what you are doing. This is the best worm farm video I have come across&Ive watched quite a few of them! I have an old porcilen sink with a drain on it, hmmmm :)
I was a young boy and could reach all the way across so I would say about 2 ft. wide and 8 ft. long with no bottom. If I were to make one I would use a sheet of tin for a bottom. They did have covers to keep the rain out.
A little compost could be used along with greens from the garden, grass clippings, vegetable waste from the kitchen, etc.
Hi Donald, you should put a milk jug or bucket under your drain, the tea from the worms is supposed to be better than the castings themselves. Just make sure you cut it down. nice idea using the tub I hadn't thought of that, I wanted to use a water tank. I've been trying to get worms from someone here in town but haven't had any luck gess i'll have to order them like you did. nice video
I'm keeping an eye on the grass that grows right outside the drain. Hadn't seen any difference yet. A storm blew off the cover on one bed and I lost many worms due to flooding. They are coming back but very slowly......... Donald
sorry to here about your worm flood, how was the smell after they died,did you have to empty out the tub and start over or just leave it alone and let it decompose? i'll bet a load strap would work good for holding down your lid. jim
I started with 5 lbs. and it took about a month to get em. Lots of folks were ordering worms at that time of the year. Normally it shouldn't take more than a week or so to get them in. Start your worm bed ahead of time, then order.......... Donald
Thanks Don. Question - is it true worm castings are poisonous to the worms? How do we know when to get them out of the bin so they don' t get poisoned by their own castings?
I've heard that from some of the experts. As long as you're feeding them it shouldn't be a problem. I have a second worm bed that I've been transferring them to as I harvest the castings. I think that's in the next video that I'll be uploading soon........... Donald
Scoop up a pile on a flat surface in bright light. The worms will work their way down into the pile. Start scraping the casting off a little at a time until you have just worms left........... Donald
What's teh deal with worm castings? Isn't it simpler and easier just to use compost - and the worms that like to get into your compost bins? Plus, do you just take out the mixture from from the bath tub from time to time and add it to your plants?
It's said that worm castings is the best fertilizer for vegetables and I would think flowers as well. I mostly use the worm castings when starting seedlings and making compost tea. It would take a lot more worms to use it in the garden......... Donald
My wife and I just purchased a small farm in South Carolina. We love the idea of farming/ranching but we don't know much about it. We've been studying for the past two years through Storey books, Mother Earth News and the internet BUT your videos are the BEST! It's been VERY helpful to see how you use the tractor! I'm a subscriber! Keep up the great work!
Glad I could be of help. Use common sense, keep things simple and I bet you'll do just fine. I'll also bet that you'll soon realize that "this is just too easy"......... Donald
That was a nice sized farm and should do very well for you. I have some suggestions.
* add water. The worms like a very damp environment so their skin does not dry out
* worms like to move. That cover will allow them to escape. Cut a piece of carpet to fit completely over them, or use some kind of a towel or material. That will also keep out pretdator and unwanted competition, and will allow them to come up to the very top to feed without having to cover them with more bedding or anything.
* you have a huge farm. You can stretch your castings by capturing the output from that drain. The liquid can be cut 4 to 1 and it is very effective. Also, put some castings into water for a couple of days and it goes a long way.
Hi, Donald! This is the first intelligent video I've seen detailing the use of worms and how to take care of them! I hope you give updates till the end. My husband wants to begin a worm colony. Is it too late? Is this only for the garden or can they be used in containers? Are these "in the tub" just for the "poop?" What else can be used instead of the tub? How long can you raise the worms for the "poop?" What do you do with them- in 100f and the freezing winter?
Hey Lisa ... My father raised worms year round for many years. We always kept them under a shade tree so they wouldn't get so hot. I'm raising these for their castings to start seedlings and make compost / worm tea. Any container that has drain holes and a cover should work. Do a little research on them before ordering. Most places that sell online has lots of information on them. Try BestBuyWorms . com ...... Donald
You didn't need to buy worms. The worms they sell you are the same worms you have in your compost heap. And they multiply very rapidly. One or two hundred worms would grow to fill that tub in a month or two.
I'm going to make two worm beds today! One bin for my front garden, and another for the back. Do you recomend me to use some big rubbermiad tubs with a drainage hole on the bottom?
I'll include the peppers in the June Field Trip. They are real easy to grow just water when needed and give them just a little fertilizer. You'll do just fine....... Donald
thank's for everything you have taught me Donald! You really inspire my children and grandchildren! They are from the age of 5-30 and they sit down in front of the computer tio watch your videos! It's a joy to watch them! Especially the the little ones!
It's been about 6 weeks and it's well on it's way. Started with 5 lbs. of worms wish I would have started with 10 lbs. That size bed could easily handle that many....... Donald
I'm kind of sad this morrning we got a whole bunch of snow over night. I put fabric blankets on most of my plants but, I'm going to have to go out and buy plants this time. alot of my stuff died. It has snowed for two days.
Wow... I hate to hear that. Many of us down south have had to replant several times because of all that rain. It's not the best year for a garden....... Donald
remember the smaller the food is chopped up the faster it will wilt down so the worms can eat it. dont let it get over 80 degrees or they will die or under 40 good luck!!
GREAT worm composter Donald ! Yep, water it down....the cardboard needs to be damp. Try to chop up your additives as small as you can. Worms dont have teeth to chomp on it. Mushy is better. Dont forget to add your coffee grounds & tea bags too. Also, egg shells.They arent crazy about onions much. Poke a spot in the corner of the tub to add the new food each time and you are going to have a bathtub full of amazing worm castings thanks for sharing it with us ! Shine On !
what do you do with them in the summer time during the heat?
210twhite 4 months ago
@210twhite ... The tub is in the shade most of the day. The heat doesn’t seem to bother them at all……Donald
webcajun 4 months ago
How often do you make compost tea
jamisonbrooks 5 months ago
@jamisonbrooks ... I would say on average 1-2 times a month......Donald
webcajun 5 months ago
How often do you harvest castings
jamisonbrooks 5 months ago
@jamisonbrooks ... It's said that a worm will eat half its weight every day so it depends on the size of the bin and the number of lbs. of worms in there. I harvest castings only when I need them which is when I make compost tea or a starter mix for seedlings.........Donald
webcajun 5 months ago
@webcajun thank you
jamisonbrooks 5 months ago
How often do you harvest the castings
jamisonbrooks 5 months ago
How often do you feed your worms
jamisonbrooks 5 months ago
@jamisonbrooks … I feed them 1-2 times a month. Most times when I feed I fill the bin to the top……Donald
webcajun 5 months ago
What do you do when the temperature reaches over 90 degrees?
TheGrayman1234 6 months ago
@TheGrayman1234 ...The bin is in the shade, the high temps don't seem to bother them.......Donald
webcajun 6 months ago
@webcajun Hmmm, my last batch died within like 48 hours. Researched that temps above 90 can kill them off. Better watch that.
TheGrayman1234 6 months ago
@TheGrayman1234 ...This will be the second year for that bin in the same location. Maybe the cast iron tube helps keep em cool.....Donald
webcajun 6 months ago
What's your opinion on the Worm Tower? We decided to give it a try because it's seems to require less maintenance (no turning, watering, or filtering) and we needed something a bit bear proof, even though I have no doubt if the bear was hungry enough it would dig the tower out.
WithurShield 7 months ago
@WithurShield ...Kind of expensive. Never used one so I can't comment good or bad......Donald
webcajun 7 months ago
@webcajun LOL !! didn't quite factor in the size of your garden, I guess it would be expensive. We have a small garden, it really didn't cost us more than $6.00 for the end caps to the pipes. We used some french drain pipes left over from when our house was built, that the construction people just tossed to the side. We didn't read/hear anything about not using them. And the worms, well there are plenty of those wiggling around our yard and don't seem to have any problems finding the food.
WithurShield 7 months ago
Thanks Very much!!
TheMrsVolfie 7 months ago
I am canadian..can I put this kind of bin outside here? I mean..will it be ok in the winter? And do they not escape out the drain hole? or did you put in a piece of screen? Someone also said save the liquid that drains..it is called "worm tea" and is apparently AMAZING fertilizer as well?
TheMrsVolfie 7 months ago
@TheMrsVolfie ... I don't think this type of setup will work in Canada, the worms and castings will freeze during the winter. Some may crawl out but most stary cause you're feeding them. I don't use the drippings, I use the castings to make tea......Donald
webcajun 7 months ago
@ Webcajun I made myself a worm bin out of a plastic bin. Its all ready and now i am waiting for my new shippement of worms to arrive. My question is can i put my worm bin in the garage but it getts pretty hot here in GA. Is that goingto be ok or whats the most heat they can deal with. Thank you for all your help.
Hectorsgarden1 7 months ago
@Hectorsgarden1 ...I have mine under a shade tree and they do ok. Make sure you have lots of air circulation. No sure how much heat they can take but I'm sure I'm pushing the limit.......Donald
webcajun 7 months ago
@ webcajun Just wanted to know where did u buy your worms from? Cause i just bought some from a seller on ebay and i recieved them today and they where all dead. Very disappointed but things happen.
Hectorsgarden1 7 months ago
@Hectorsgarden1...BestBuyWorms . com
webcajun 7 months ago
@Webcajun can u use any kind of newspaper? Or does it have to be black and white only? No color newspaper?
Hectorsgarden1 7 months ago
@Hectorsgarden1 ...Black and white is good. Don't use the shinny stuff.......Donald
webcajun 7 months ago
@ Webcajun I have been saving all of my scraps for my compost bin i have been building out of a 55 gallon drum. I have coffee banana peels orange peel all kind of scraps in the refrigerator should i let it sit out or just put it in the compost?
Hectorsgarden1 7 months ago
@Hectorsgarden1 ...I would just put it in the bin......Donald
webcajun 7 months ago
Thanks. You speak French? My parents never taught me.
SidneyBou 9 months ago
@SidneyBou ...I understand Cajun French and can speak a few words......Donald
webcajun 9 months ago
Leaves contain a lot of cellulose. Unless you have thousands of worms in your cooler it will take a while depending on the environment of the cooler you are using. I don't know how many worms you have but I would suggest using about 1,000 worms to start for a cooler. That's about 1 lb. of worms. If you want faster castings stick to foods that break down faster like banana peels and spinach and so forth. Tree products and grass products just take a while longer. Newspaper less time.
SquirminVermin 9 months ago
Sorry Donald Please remove all these repeats Thanks
SquirminVermin 9 months ago
@SquirminVermin ...No problem......Donald
webcajun 9 months ago
Hello Donald, I started one just like that but it did not turn out to well. I kept on wondering if it was because lack of air flow seeing how there is only one bottom hole.I ended up moving mine to a different location that I was able to put much more air flow in. How is yours working out?
paulgem123 9 months ago
@paulgem123 ...Mine is doing pretty good. They eat any and everything I throw in there. Don't forget to give them a little water now and then.....Donald
webcajun 9 months ago
@webcajun That's great. Thanks Donald. Have a great day.
paulgem123 9 months ago
@paulgem123 Keep the bedding damp like Donald said and fluffy to allow oxygen to penetrate. Too much water and you will sufficate them as the oxygen can not penetrate the water. Stir the bedding once a week and keep out of sun. Alaways Keep a c:n ratio of 20:1. Donald's top was corragated allowing air to flow. As gasses go out the top it brings in fresh oxygen from the hole in the bottom. Awesomd Donald. Keep it up Pauly worm farming revealed .com
SquirminVermin 9 months ago
@SquirminVermin Thanks, I did that but it didn't work to well so I modified a soda cooler like you see in convenience stores and it seems to be working much better. I put screens in but I'm not sure how to harvest the castings. I'm trying to make it easy to harvest but I have not figured it out yet. Thanks for your help.
paulgem123 9 months ago
@paulgem123 Unless you have a tromel it will be painstakenly slow but not hard doing it the old fashioned way by dumping the contents out in a well lit area and scraping the casting off the top while your worms retreat down. They do not like the light. Be sure you remove the cocoons as well. You can have 1-4 worms per cocoon and they will not make it in your garden throughout the year if they are composting worms. I have some tips at my website that might help you.
SquirminVermin 9 months ago
@SquirminVermin I have a question; I have a lot of leaves in my worm bin, they are black and broken down, but not all the way. I did a manual inspection and they are doing real well. I had some that were 8' long and a lot of babies. Here is my question. How do I get it to fully compost? What am I doing wrong? Do I need more worms to do the job? It seems like I have a 20:1 mixture. I added 24 new red worms today. Thanks in advance
paulgem123 9 months ago
@paulgem123 Keep the bedding damp like Donald said and fluffy to allow oxygen to penetrate. Too much water and you will sufficate them as the oxygen can not penetrate the water. Stir the bedding once a week and keep out of sun. Alaways Keep a c:n ratio of 20:1. Donald's top was corragated allowing air to flow. As gasses go out the top it brings in fresh oxygen from the hole in the bottom. Awesome Donald. Keep it up Pauly worm farming revealed .com
SquirminVermin 9 months ago
This has been flagged as spam show
@paulgem123 Keep the bedding damp like Donald said and fluffy to allow oxygen to penetrate. Too much water and you will sufficate them as the oxygen can not penetrate the water. Stir the bedding once a week and keep out of sun. Alaways Keep a c:n ratio of 20:1. Donald's top was corragated allowing air to flow. As gasses go out the top it brings in fresh oxygen from the hole in the bottom. Awesome Donald. Keep it up Pauly worm farming revealed .com
SquirminVermin 9 months ago
This has been flagged as spam show
@paulgem123 Keep the bedding damp like Donald said and fluffy to allow oxygen to penetrate. Too much water and you will sufficate them as the oxygen can not penetrate the water. Stir the bedding once a week and keep out of sun. Alaways Keep a c:n ratio of 20:1. Donald's top was corragated allowing air to flow. As gasses go out the top it brings in fresh oxygen from the hole in the bottom. Awesome Donald. Keep it up Pauly worm farming revealed .com
SquirminVermin 9 months ago
Hey Donald.
I plan to start my own worm bin this summer.
I just dont understand how you seperate the worms from the castings. Do you just pull them off the dirt or is there a trick to it?
islandgardener 9 months ago
@islandgardener ...I remove worms and castings and make a pile in bright light. Worms work their way down cause they don't like the light. Scrape the casings off the top until you start seeing more worms. Give a few minutes to work their way down again and scrape some more.....Donald
webcajun 9 months ago
Donald, hows the worms doing, didnt see an update on your worm tub?
MrGardenman101 9 months ago
@MrGardenman101 ...worms are doing real good. I'm in that stage of the garden where I don't have very much to feed them so I may have to start putting more newspaper and cardboard in there. They are producing lots of castings for the tea this spring. When I checked them the other day they looked real healthy.....Donald
webcajun 9 months ago
Thank you for taking the time to share this.
myclem6674 10 months ago
@myclem6674 ...The castings are great for compost tea. You're welcome......Donald
webcajun 10 months ago
if you wanna keep the worms in the tub, you can put some green waste/scraps on top of the dirt, then wait a couple days or a week, then all the worms will be in the new green material, you can now move the green material off to the side for now while you take the fully composted material out. So now you dont have to buy more worms. just thought i'd share, i hope you like this info
MAGTRAIN 10 months ago
@MAGTRAIN ...good tip....Donald
webcajun 10 months ago
This guy's awesome! People from Louisiana are so down to Earth. He's the kind of guy you would like to sit down, talk about life, and have a few beers with. God bless!
09Chance 10 months ago
@09Chance ...I like all of the above. lol.....Donald
webcajun 10 months ago
I just got my first pound of worms in today. I am keeping them inside in a plastic container...Not sure how happy the wife is going to be about this, but am eager to try some compost tea on the plants this spring. Thanks for the videos Donald!
jwlrymkr 11 months ago
@jwlrymkr ... I have a vid on making compost tea in a 5 gal bucket, may want to check it out. So easy to do.......Donald
webcajun 11 months ago
ur worm setup may have changed since this video, but if u use 2 bungie cords, one at each end, to strap down ur led, u would not have to move that heavy 4x4 or cinder block when u check ur worms. My worm bed is set up the same way urs is. Great minds think alike. lol
carrottop8311987 11 months ago
@carrottop8311987 ... Thanks for the tip.......Donald
webcajun 11 months ago
how about an update video on the worm bed. :)
Ccoach55 1 year ago
@Ccoach55 ... I'll try to remember to include an update in one of the videos. Just fed em the other day with a tub full of greens from the garden. They looked happy. LOL.......Donald
webcajun 1 year ago
what typ worm did you use and where can i get them
mcadams53 1 year ago
@mcadams53 ... I ordered the red wigglers. Got em from bestbuyworms(dot)com..........Donald
webcajun 1 year ago
Living in upstate New York where it gets real cold would it be better if I buried my container half way into the ground?
mfpieklik 1 year ago
@mfpieklik ... drainage may be a problem if buried........Donald
webcajun 1 year ago
This has been flagged as spam show
Breaking you habit with Russian lady gettop5.info
DesgWamrt 1 year ago
how cold tolerant are earthworms? my plastic bin is under the carport.i live in south ga and we get a few 26 degree nights through the winter but hardly that cold for many nights in a row. just wondering if theyll be ok .
myshizzleneal 1 year ago
@myshizzleneal ... mine survived the winter exactly where you saw them in the video. Having yours in a plastic bin, maybe bring them inside on the really cold nights..........Donald
webcajun 1 year ago
Hi, I am new subscriber. I enjoyed many of your clips today.
I must say "wow" what a smorgasbord of well made instruction clips.
I love your land and the space, plus your living enjoyment that comes with.
This cliip of worm Bed finally made me prompt to think and wanting to utilise one big shiny iron cast bathtub that has been sitting empty in my west garden for 7 years. Thank You for so many good tips of gardening and even cooking.
I shall let you know my of my Worm Bed soon.
LaMarAzura 1 year ago
@LaMarAzura ... The purpose of the videos are to give you ideas, looks like it worked. lol Glad you enjoy the vids and let us know how the worm bed comes out. Make a cover for the bed and make sure any water drains out real well. Worms can’t swim to good, trust me on that one........Donald
webcajun 1 year ago
Donald, You'll soon learn how very very time consuming skimming castings is. I've got a second unit I put on top then put my garbage in it and the worms transfer themselves. Much better.
ElShadaiLives 1 year ago
@ElShadaiLives ... I'm told that works real well. I use about a gal. to make my tea and it does take awhie to seperate the worms.........Donald
webcajun 1 year ago
Thats so amazing. We dont have worms in my area. Never seen anything like it.
aus2045 1 year ago
@aus2045 ... worm castings make for a good fertilizer and also good mixed with compost to make tea for the garden...........Donald
webcajun 1 year ago
hey buddy can i move in to your farm? i can stay in the barn
ATRAF66 1 year ago
@ATRAF66 ... just bring lots of work clothes, you'll need em. lol........Donald
webcajun 1 year ago
what kind of worms are they? does it matter which kind I order? I was also wanting to use worms for when I go fishing as bait as well as for a worm compost bin.
Alina674 1 year ago
@Alina674 ... Red Wigglers are recommended for composting and you can use em to catch fish. They're a little small but will fit on the hook........Donald
webcajun 1 year ago
This may be a stupid question but how are the casting collected? Sorry I am a newbie and trying to learn different aspects about good gardening.
blkscreen15 1 year ago
@blkscreen15 ... not stupid at all. Make a pile in bright light and the worms will work their way down. Scrape the castings off the top until you start seeing worms again then stop and wait for them to work their way down again. Real easy and it doesn't take as long as you'd think. Keep in mind, a little bit of castings go a long way. Only need 20% in a starter mix for seeds........Donald
webcajun 1 year ago
I started w/ 1lb of red wigglers about 7 yrs ago. Got lots of worms. =) They get real lazy when the temperatures go above 80 degrees F. Newspaper print is not good unless it is non-toxic ink. Shredder? My Doberman & I play tug-a-war he shreds that cardboard or any other paper in a hurry. Fun for both of us. Peace all. Sent a message to you Donald before I saw this vid. Sry. Peace
ElShadaiLives 1 year ago
You'd have to surrond that tub with something to insulate it and an insulating top here in West Texas or all you will have is cooked worms.
desertbard 1 year ago
@desertbard ... here in Louisiana a good shade tree is all they need...... Donald
webcajun 1 year ago
One thing I've read is only colored ink is poisonous, but I'm sure this can very as some colors must be available that would be clean.
I hope you'all are Ok with the poisons they're spraying and get BP to STOP that crap ASAP.
COREXIT is worse than OIL and they know this!
UnoRaza 1 year ago
@UnoRaza ... I don't feed them the "shinny" part of the newspaper. From what I hear from friends down on the gulf it's not good. A hurricane would really hurts us all......Donald
webcajun 1 year ago
@webcajun How many pounds of worms did you use to get started ?
I'd have been paranoid about the hole getting stopped up and drowning the worms. I wonder if sand or rocks around the hole would be a good idea when you've just one hole like in a bath tub?
My "worm bin" is a cement culvert high on my property that never sees water. I've a Redwood that delivers tons of good composting materials. ;D) Seriously, you cannot get much better than Redwood, but they're a little messy when it's dry.
UnoRaza 1 year ago
@UnoRaza ... I started out with 5 lbs. of worms. Got em from BestBuyWorms . com. Rocks or bricks would probably work out just fine. If you cover your bins you won't have to worry about rain getting in there unless you have a big wind storm like I did.......Donald
webcajun 1 year ago
how are the worms doing, i bet they love their new home...what kind of worms do i get?
ALETHEIA8881 1 year ago
@ALETHEIA8881 ... the worms are doing real well and supplying all the castings I need. Red Wigglers are the best for composting.......Donald
webcajun 1 year ago
@webcajun thank you so much, i cant wait to start composting with worms....
ALETHEIA8881 1 year ago
I have several 55 gallon plastic containers cut in half, added mulch. Each time I purchase worms for fishing, I bring the left overs home, and add them to my mulch containers. The worms multiply fast, turning my mulch into good highly fertile soil/plant food. I plant inside these containers, I have had an early girl produce up to 300 LBS of tomatoes on one plant. My drain holes are 3 inches from the bottom, works good in the hot summer months, and allows for enough drainage in the winter.
MrAdmarm 1 year ago
@MrAdmarm ... that's a lot of tomatoes for just one plant. I'm lucky to get 30 lbs...... Donald
webcajun 1 year ago
@webcajun , I learn something new always watching your Vids. I start from seed (no Transplant), when the tomatoe gets about 10-12 inches tall I fill in with mulch covering the whole plant except a couple of inches from the top, and a few leaves..gives it a big root system. This yr my garden is doing well, but moving soon to 11 acres, then have more space.
MrAdmarm 1 year ago
@webcajun , Yeah I was surprised to, I started by seed, no transplant. After 8 to 10 inches of growth I filled in the container covering the plant except a couple of inches from the top. This year my whole garden is doing well, soon moving to 11 acres, I need the garden space.
MrAdmarm 1 year ago
@webcajun ,@webcajun , Yeah I was surprised to, I started by seed, no transplant. After 8 to 10 inches of growth I filled in the container covering the plant except a couple of inches from the top. This year my whole garden is doing well, soon moving to 11 acres, I need the garden space.
MrAdmarm 1 year ago
@webcajun , Yeah I was surprised to, I started by seed, no transplant. After 8 to 10 inches of growth I filled in the container covering the plant except a couple of inches from the top. This year my whole garden is doing well, soon moving to 11 acres, I need the garden space.
MrAdmarm 1 year ago
I tried this and my worms died and they got real sticky and a lot of fruit flies.
paulgem123 1 year ago
@paulgem123 ... sounds like you didn't bury the food scraps when you put them in which accounts for the flies. Exactually why your worms died I haven't got a clue....... Donald
webcajun 1 year ago
looks like some good hunting out there
rmf09020 1 year ago
@rmf09020 ... hunting is just ok in this area...... Donald
webcajun 1 year ago
Hey Donald, is it ok to use pretty much any type of newspaper? Or should I only try and use black and white ink? I also have access to literally about a ton of old magazines. Just trying to figure out what I can use before I buy the worms.
Thanks!
spainmd 1 year ago
@spainmd ... stick with the black and white newspaper...... Donald
webcajun 1 year ago
Donald, Thank you for taking the time to make these videos. We really Appreciate it. We are wondering how things would be if we did this in a greenhouse. Thanks, Thom- Illinois
sieloff777 1 year ago
Having them in the Greenhouse would be great in the winter but not so good in the heat of summer unless you have good ventilation.......... Donald
webcajun 1 year ago
I think it would work great in a greenhouse! That way the temperature would be consistent year round.
best333WillC 1 year ago
hello there mr.webcajun, i live in AZ, with the summer heat wonder if the worm bed would survive here. any insight? thanks
trigerboyy 2 years ago
I would try a few in a shady spot to see what happens. They are tougher then you think........... Donald
webcajun 2 years ago
Hey Donald, Can you make another video, on the out come of this project? Did it work well for you? Thanks
M4PATRIOT 2 years ago
I'll do some updates this season. I did have some bad luck with one of the beds. During a storm, the top blew off the tube and just about filled with water, I lost quite a few worms. Had that not happened I would have more worms than I'd know what to do with........... Donald
webcajun 2 years ago
what is the best fishing worms to raise?
ln4359 2 years ago
Contact BestBuyWorms . com and they'll steer you in the right direction........ Donald
webcajun 2 years ago
Those worms are in hog heaven, in the land of plenty, Sir, you know what you are doing. This is the best worm farm video I have come across&Ive watched quite a few of them! I have an old porcilen sink with a drain on it, hmmmm :)
ln4359 2 years ago
My father would raise his in a wooden frame sitting on top the ground. Keep feeding them and they'll hang around........ Donald
webcajun 2 years ago
what were the approx measurements of the wooden frame? did it have a floor or just a frame? did he get compost? i need something easy to make
ln4359 2 years ago
I was a young boy and could reach all the way across so I would say about 2 ft. wide and 8 ft. long with no bottom. If I were to make one I would use a sheet of tin for a bottom. They did have covers to keep the rain out.
A little compost could be used along with greens from the garden, grass clippings, vegetable waste from the kitchen, etc.
webcajun 2 years ago
how do you order the worms i need some.
Daninjalee 2 years ago
Go to my web site and check out the link to Best Buy Worms . com. Real nice people to deal with. Tell em I sent you........... Donald
webcajun 2 years ago
Hi Donald, you should put a milk jug or bucket under your drain, the tea from the worms is supposed to be better than the castings themselves. Just make sure you cut it down. nice idea using the tub I hadn't thought of that, I wanted to use a water tank. I've been trying to get worms from someone here in town but haven't had any luck gess i'll have to order them like you did. nice video
jimkleager 2 years ago
I'm keeping an eye on the grass that grows right outside the drain. Hadn't seen any difference yet. A storm blew off the cover on one bed and I lost many worms due to flooding. They are coming back but very slowly......... Donald
webcajun 2 years ago
sorry to here about your worm flood, how was the smell after they died,did you have to empty out the tub and start over or just leave it alone and let it decompose? i'll bet a load strap would work good for holding down your lid. jim
jimkleager 2 years ago
Hey Jim ... The smell wasn't too bad. I've since put a bigger block on the top........ Donald
webcajun 2 years ago
omg! Mr. I so want you to be my grandfather! god bless
perolito123 2 years ago
No problem, you could be grandchild number 6........ Donald
webcajun 2 years ago
How many worms did you order? How many day sdid it take to receive your worms? Hope you don't mind the questions. Thanks.
superstudent66 2 years ago
I started with 5 lbs. and it took about a month to get em. Lots of folks were ordering worms at that time of the year. Normally it shouldn't take more than a week or so to get them in. Start your worm bed ahead of time, then order.......... Donald
webcajun 2 years ago
Thanks Don. Question - is it true worm castings are poisonous to the worms? How do we know when to get them out of the bin so they don' t get poisoned by their own castings?
Ewema4kids 2 years ago
I've heard that from some of the experts. As long as you're feeding them it shouldn't be a problem. I have a second worm bed that I've been transferring them to as I harvest the castings. I think that's in the next video that I'll be uploading soon........... Donald
webcajun 2 years ago
That is very facinating information! Thank you very much for that, Sir!
whitedragon7 2 years ago
You're welcome...... Donald
webcajun 2 years ago
Hi, great videos. A question please about worm compost. How do you separate the worms from the castings when you want to harvest the castings?
Best Wishes,
Brendan
baconsoda 2 years ago
Scoop up a pile on a flat surface in bright light. The worms will work their way down into the pile. Start scraping the casting off a little at a time until you have just worms left........... Donald
webcajun 2 years ago
Thank you very much. I've looked at lots of worm composting methods and I think yours is the best.
Best Wishes,
Brendan
baconsoda 2 years ago
What's teh deal with worm castings? Isn't it simpler and easier just to use compost - and the worms that like to get into your compost bins? Plus, do you just take out the mixture from from the bath tub from time to time and add it to your plants?
ivankinsman 2 years ago
It's said that worm castings is the best fertilizer for vegetables and I would think flowers as well. I mostly use the worm castings when starting seedlings and making compost tea. It would take a lot more worms to use it in the garden......... Donald
webcajun 2 years ago
Donald,
My wife and I just purchased a small farm in South Carolina. We love the idea of farming/ranching but we don't know much about it. We've been studying for the past two years through Storey books, Mother Earth News and the internet BUT your videos are the BEST! It's been VERY helpful to see how you use the tractor! I'm a subscriber! Keep up the great work!
vewaddell 2 years ago
Glad I could be of help. Use common sense, keep things simple and I bet you'll do just fine. I'll also bet that you'll soon realize that "this is just too easy"......... Donald
webcajun 2 years ago
That was a nice sized farm and should do very well for you. I have some suggestions.
* add water. The worms like a very damp environment so their skin does not dry out
* worms like to move. That cover will allow them to escape. Cut a piece of carpet to fit completely over them, or use some kind of a towel or material. That will also keep out pretdator and unwanted competition, and will allow them to come up to the very top to feed without having to cover them with more bedding or anything.
WoundedEgo 2 years ago
* you have a huge farm. You can stretch your castings by capturing the output from that drain. The liquid can be cut 4 to 1 and it is very effective. Also, put some castings into water for a couple of days and it goes a long way.
WoundedEgo 2 years ago
I appreciate your advice........ Donald
webcajun 2 years ago
ur cool d man
wildweasel974 2 years ago
Hi, Donald! This is the first intelligent video I've seen detailing the use of worms and how to take care of them! I hope you give updates till the end. My husband wants to begin a worm colony. Is it too late? Is this only for the garden or can they be used in containers? Are these "in the tub" just for the "poop?" What else can be used instead of the tub? How long can you raise the worms for the "poop?" What do you do with them- in 100f and the freezing winter?
I'd like to surprise him.
Lisa
TheDouglasFarm 2 years ago
Hey Lisa ... My father raised worms year round for many years. We always kept them under a shade tree so they wouldn't get so hot. I'm raising these for their castings to start seedlings and make compost / worm tea. Any container that has drain holes and a cover should work. Do a little research on them before ordering. Most places that sell online has lots of information on them. Try BestBuyWorms . com ...... Donald
webcajun 2 years ago
Do you have to do anything different for the winter so they don't freeze or will they survive in that tub?
Thanks:)
TheDouglasFarm 2 years ago
Living in Louisiana we have very mild winters so I don't think I'll have any problems........ Donald
webcajun 2 years ago
how is this winter been ? it been cold here we have had 36 snow storms since nov today feb 14th it snowing lol
bobinmissouri 1 year ago
It's been very cold for Louisiana also....... Donald
webcajun 1 year ago
Are they special worms or could I just go and get some fishing worms from the store.
mutanttk08 2 years ago
Fishing worms would cost you a fortune. These are the "Red Wigglers" from BestBuyWorms. You can order them online........ Donald
webcajun 2 years ago
Great demonstration
idrobinhood 2 years ago
Thanks, they've eaten just about everything in there....... Donald
webcajun 2 years ago
I must say I love seeing your dog in the background. Always working on the set... Thanks for another great video.
taviyo 2 years ago
Both dogs are never very far away, they'll follow me all day long. Glad you enjoy the videos....... Donald
webcajun 2 years ago
You didn't need to buy worms. The worms they sell you are the same worms you have in your compost heap. And they multiply very rapidly. One or two hundred worms would grow to fill that tub in a month or two.
theoriginalSkooby 2 years ago
Another great video Donald! - Mark
markhess 2 years ago
Hey Mark ... I'll include an update in the June Field Trip. You'll be surprised how fast they got through that stuff....... Donald
webcajun 2 years ago
I have heard that the smaller the size of the food you are feeding them with, the more rapidly they will eat it because it decomposes faster :D
carllos25 2 years ago
I've heard and read the same thing....... Donald
webcajun 2 years ago
I'm going to make two worm beds today! One bin for my front garden, and another for the back. Do you recomend me to use some big rubbermiad tubs with a drainage hole on the bottom?
- Orly
Pimporly 2 years ago
I've watched some videos here on YouTube where people are using those. Check it out....... Donald
webcajun 2 years ago
um donald can u make a video on how to take care of jalapa hot peppers
im 13 and really inspired to make a garden of my own so i went and baught tomatos and hpt peppers
littlebigplanetguy 2 years ago
I'll include the peppers in the June Field Trip. They are real easy to grow just water when needed and give them just a little fertilizer. You'll do just fine....... Donald
webcajun 2 years ago
thank's for everything you have taught me Donald! You really inspire my children and grandchildren! They are from the age of 5-30 and they sit down in front of the computer tio watch your videos! It's a joy to watch them! Especially the the little ones!
Pimporly 2 years ago
It's the simple things in life that I enjoy the most. Maybe we all need a little more of that....... Donald
webcajun 2 years ago
Wow! This is awesome! How long does it take to get and harvest fresh castings before you put more food into their bin?
amiraprod525 2 years ago
It's been about 6 weeks and it's well on it's way. Started with 5 lbs. of worms wish I would have started with 10 lbs. That size bed could easily handle that many....... Donald
webcajun 2 years ago
Great Timing. I was thinking of how to do this myself.
member699 2 years ago
Thanks Donald, I'm learning so much...
baddogonline 2 years ago
I'm really excited about the worm bed and the worm tea that will be coming in the next few months....... Donald
webcajun 2 years ago
I'm kind of sad this morrning we got a whole bunch of snow over night. I put fabric blankets on most of my plants but, I'm going to have to go out and buy plants this time. alot of my stuff died. It has snowed for two days.
crewlla 2 years ago
Wow... I hate to hear that. Many of us down south have had to replant several times because of all that rain. It's not the best year for a garden....... Donald
webcajun 2 years ago
its nice to know were not the only ones who are having weather problems. Thank you your comment made me feel alot better. :)
crewlla 2 years ago
we are getting hammered with rain in 2010, with all the rain and insects im not sure if an outdoor garden is going to work for me
ln4359 2 years ago
remember the smaller the food is chopped up the faster it will wilt down so the worms can eat it. dont let it get over 80 degrees or they will die or under 40 good luck!!
TnWormsCastings 2 years ago
Thanks for all your help, I really appreciate it....... Donald
webcajun 2 years ago
GREAT worm composter Donald ! Yep, water it down....the cardboard needs to be damp. Try to chop up your additives as small as you can. Worms dont have teeth to chomp on it. Mushy is better. Dont forget to add your coffee grounds & tea bags too. Also, egg shells.They arent crazy about onions much. Poke a spot in the corner of the tub to add the new food each time and you are going to have a bathtub full of amazing worm castings thanks for sharing it with us ! Shine On !
mukwah1111 2 years ago
They've been in there about 5-6 weeks now and have eaten just about everything....... Donald
webcajun 2 years ago
hahahah get down in there and start eating gonna be some healthy castings with swiss chard and broccli on the menu ha
wgseagal 2 years ago
They seem to be real happy in there. I talk to em, think they like that. LOL ...... Donald
webcajun 2 years ago
Great vid..thanks again.
sadia102 2 years ago
You're welcome....... Donald
webcajun 2 years ago