The best kind of compost bin can still differ from one person’s individual feedback to another. Other than the variation in prices, shapes, sizes, and even styles, composters for garden use can be simply determined through several things. To know which composting bin will best suit you and your organic garden, you may read furthermore of this article.

Narrowing down your options

There are compost bins that are homemade, as there are also garden composters that are already being sold commercially. You can also be assured that all of these will work into helping create some nutrient-rich organic compost for you. But note that composter selections can also be quite endless for anyone’s picking (there’s wood, plastic, wire-made, open, tumbling, etc.). However, you can still choose by going through a few buying considerations: (1) the allotted budget for your composter bin choice, (2) the size, capacity, and quantity of the bin, (3) the speed of the bin, (4) and the exterior look of the bin.

Budget allotment for a prospective garden composter

It’s important that you only purchase a composter that will fit your budget rather than splurge your money on something that won’t actually work well in your garden. You’re going to have to set a price range so that you’ll know where to start from. Also look for something that’s long-lasting and of high-quality. You’ll be surprised that even the most basic models last longer than the other preferences.

Compost bin size, capacity and quantity 

Determining the size and capacity of your prospective composter is always important. It’ll be useless if you were to purchase a large container yet you only have a few organic wastes to compost on a regular basis. Makes sense, right? Be practical when choosing a garden composter, as this will help save you on your potential purchase/s. Also consider the number of bins that you’ll be using. You’ll need additional containers should you decide to have sizeable amounts of organic remains composted in a span of weeks or months (you’ll need these for when transferring finished compost). 

Determining the speed of the compost bin

If you want to produce compost in the quickest way possible (as fast as two months), you might want to consider getting the type that spins (like a rotating bin for example). Composter types like this no longer need any manual mixing or turning (turning over compost materials with your bare hands), as steel rods are already attached on the bin for easy spinning. So you might want to consider getting something that finishes rapidly so that you may also be able to get your investment back right away.

A composter’s physical appearance

The exterior look of your compost bin can also add some beauty or décor in your organic garden, as this will still be seen at some angle in your plot. So if you can manage to put in a few more money into your bin, go ahead. But for those who have budget constraints, go for color matching at the very least. Make your bin blend well with its surroundings rather than have it exposed in its unsightly façade. 

Uncle Jim’s recommends the Kitchen Compost Collector 

Looking for an odorless compost bin that you can use straight from your kitchen? No problem! The Kitchen Compost Collector can provide you just the thing, and more! With its thick charcoal filter, odors from kitchen scraps will surely be prevented. Other than its handy feature (you can store it under the sink), you can also store 9.1 liters worth of organic wastes inside it. So get your own Kitchen Compost Collector for indoor use today, here at Uncle Jim’s!

To know more about the product, check the Kitchen Compost Collector here. 

There are actually two common types of composting worms, and these are the Eisenia fetida (red wiggler worm), and the Eisenia hortensis (European Nightcrawler). But the most favorable composting worm would be the first one, the red wiggler worm. 

It will be advantageous for any composter newbie to be informed of the know-how’s of buying red wigglers online. Red wiggler worms aren’t usually seen crawling from underneath the garden, as these are reared in specialized areas such as farms (thus the terms worm farm or worm ranch). And now that many people are already into vermicomposting, it’s also expected that many people will also be into selling worms for a profit. Now most reliable merchants will be found selling on actual sites (local worm farms), as some prefer to sell their goods on the web. So to avoid being swindled with the wrong kind of worms, it’ll be best to practice with caution as well. You can get more valuable tips on buying red wiggler worms online by reading further of this article.

Tip 1: It pays to read up on the online stores testimonials

There will be countless of stores catering to the sale of compost worms; and you will be free to choose which of these to buy from. But before you go right ahead into purchasing your supply of red wiggler worms, start by reading up on the company’s testimonials. Feedbacks from previous customers can come in handy. So check whether there are more positive responses from the negative reactions (if there are any). The reliability of a company can also be seen in this point of view (it’s important to know how the company works with its customers). You can also get referrals from trusted sources (like family or friends) who may have already bought worms online.

Tip 2: Check for shipping terms

After your store selection, proceed to checking how the company’s shipping terms will be handled. Most worm farm stores will state how much the rate’s will be for a specific destination. Along with that, the shipping material where the red wigglers will be packed in are also typically mentioned. Now, one of the best things that you can request for is to have the worms shipped in their original bedding. In this way, the worms will no longer have to adjust in new surroundings (this will be more comfortable on their end). 

Tip 3: Count the shipping days

When you buy red wigglers online, make sure that you also plot out the days for when your worms will arrive. So it’s best that you get informed of the shipping days, so that you’ll also know if there will be any delays. Worm farm stores online typically advice their customers to expect their worm packages within 2 to 3 days. But you can still request for these to come in at an earlier time (but then you might have to pay extra).

Tip 4: Compare prices

If you have extra time on your hands (when buying red wigglers online), consider comparing prices of worm packages from one worm farm perspective to another. But on a lighter note, you won’t need to worry about the costs for buying these worms, as the return of your investment will double in no time (given that your worms will be given proper care and maintenance). 

Uncle Jim’s recommends the 5000 Red Wigglers

Don’t let your kitchen and garden scraps go to waste! Have these composted and turned into a nutrient-packed organic fertilizer by feeding these to 5,000 Red Wigglers! Get your supply live, wiggling, and with free shipping, guaranteed! These and other great features await you, here at Uncle Jim’s Worm Farm!

To know more about the product, check the 5000 Red Wigglers here. 

 Vermicomposting is a natural process that helps breakdown decomposing organics with the assistance of composting worms. With the right care and maintenance, these worms will be able to thrive, produce more rich compost, multiply in number, and more. Now, all indoor and outdoor worm bins will need its respective vermicomposting bin maintanence. Failure to preserve the contents of your bin can result to compost spoiling, worms dying, the bin smelling, and so on. A regular upkeep for any type of worm composter is definitely an essential.

Indoor Vermicomposting

Since composting worms are very efficient food processors, you can expect to use them even inside your home (provided that they’re also securely placed inside a specialized indoor composter). Composters that have been made for indoor use can be placed inside the garage, by the basement, inside an old closet, bathroom, laundry room, pantry, kitchen, or even under the kitchen sink. Different sizes, shapes and materials are offered for your picking, so it’s best to get the one that suits your preference (especially a composter that will also help complement the look of your home). Indoor composting bins are actually the best option for those who are space-restricted (perfect for apartment-dwellers or those who don’t have any garden space).

Now when choosing for a worm compost bin, make sure that you start with a small and shallow bin (best to start on a small scale). If you’re thinking about composting more organic scraps, then it would be advisable to switch to outdoor composting (can compost bigger quantities since it’s not space-restricted). Also, composting indoors will require that you take into consideration the following things: a plastic or wooden compost bin, (2) some moist bedding, (3) organic food scraps, (4) and the right temperature.

Basic vermicomposting will require that you place your worms inside a composter that has a depth of at least 12 to 18 inches. You can also opt into using a plastic or wooden made bin that is also opaque in shade (worms detest bright lights). Other than that, providing your worms a moist bedding will also keep them happy and thriving. The worm bedding can be in the form of presoaked newspaper shreds, some dry leaves, and loose soil. 

On top of that, you’ll also need to fill your bin with organic food wastes (these are your typical kitchen and garden scraps). Both bedding and worm food will need to be replenished as soon as these are consumed. And since your worms will eventually be turning these wastes into nutrient-rich humus, then expect to have the bin cleaned up of residues to avoid potential odor build-up. Aside from that, also check the indoor temperature, as the ideal temperature ranges from 60-80 degrees Fahrenheit. 

Also remember to place these soil creatures inside a well-aerated bin. Your worm bin should still have the necessary holes drilled around it to let air in, and to drain out excess moisture from the composter. This will also help avoid the contents of your bin to get spoiled through the process. To also avoid unwanted pest visits, make sure that the bin is covered at all times.

Outdoor Vermicomposting

Outdoor vermicomposting is perfect for those who have larges spaces at home (a spacious lawn or backyard). It’s the most preferred type of composting when thinking about breaking down larger quantities of organic wastes. An outdoor composter is typically larger than the indoor bin types. But do take note that outdoor composting will require more maintenance compared to indoor composting. 

Now to keep outdoor worm bins maintained, you’ll have to note of the following essentials. The first tip is to not leave your outdoor composter exposed under direct sunlight. Leaving your bin in this situation can potentially dry up the contents of the bin, make the temperature rise, and kill the worms inside it. It’s best that you keep the bin under a good shade, and to also keep it protected with a lid/cover. Keeping the bin covered can also prevent pests (particularly worm-preying killers) from hovering on top of it.

To prevent your worms from escaping the bin, it’s best that you also keep them well fed (only replenish their stock as soon as they’ve consumed everything in the bin). You’ll also know when to put in a new food supply when they’ve produced their castings. Also, feed them scraps that are considered to be organic. Failure to do so may result to food being disregarded. This can result to an odor build-up (caused by rotten food) as well. 

For a very important vermicomposting bin maintanence tip, also make sure not to leave the bin too dry or too wet. A bin that contains dry bedding materials can result to a worms eventual demise. The worm may experience skin irritation or even death (worms need to be in moist surroundings since they breathe through their moist skin). Keeping the bin too wet is also dangerous. Other than the compost getting spoiled, it can also lead to your worms drowning from it. 

Uncle Jim’s recommends the Garden Tools and Indoor Compost Bins

If you’re looking for effective yet affordable garden tools and compost bins, then you’ve come to right place! We’re offering a wide range of compost equipments ranging from Ceramic Compost Pails to Compost Pile Turners. Use these handy items to your advantage by purchasing your selections at Uncle Jim’s today!

 To know more about the product, check the Indoor Compost Bins here. 

Going on fishing trips can be quite exciting, especially if you’re very passionate about it. Take for example the people who make a living out of fishing, like Fishermen. These fishermen will always have their need for the right tools to get their daily catch. They will need their line, their hook, and of course, their fish bait. Now when it comes to any live fishing bait, the number one product that is used for this kind of activity are typically red wigglers or nightcrawlers. You won’t be surprised that many people are already raising worms so that they may be able to offer avid fishermen with their daily needs, for very affordable prices.

A fisherman and a Worm Composter

Any one can actually go into nightcrawler or red worms composting, so why not fishermen too? You just have to imagine yourself as a fisherman, and picture how things should run for you. Since buying worms to use as bait can also be costly on your end (especially when the need to fish is done on a regular basis), it would also be a great idea to raise and breed your very own supply. In this way, not only will you be using your own produce, you can also be assured that the live bait worms that you’ll be using have also been raised well. So if you think both types of work are not in line, just remember that a fisherman can also be a worm composter. Being both will definitely help save you on your regular worm purchases in the long run.

Supplies and procedures that will be needed to help raise worms as fish bait

So how does one raise worms for fishing? Simple. All you’ll need are plastic containers (2 pieces) that have lids on them (like those large Rubbermaid types). Apart from that, also prepare a drill, a ¼” drill bit, some soil, old newspaper, organic scraps, and of course, your choice of worms. As soon as you’ve gathered all of these materials, start your worms bait project by looking for a location. You’ll be using this location (preferably one that has shade) for your worm bin set-up. Now when you’ve found a spot, start drilling holes on the container. You’ll need to use your ¼” drill bit for this to make several holes (with a distance of about 2 to 3 inches from each hole made) on the base and top area of the containers.

What to place inside a worm composter

When you’re done drilling some holes, proceed by putting in some soil, and some organic scraps into the worms fishing bait bin. Now you’re going to have these materials (your bedding materials should be moist but not soaking wet) mixed first before putting in your worms. When you’re done with your set-up, close the lid and wait a few more weeks for your worms to start settling in their new home. You should also add organic scraps to replenish their food and bedding supply once a week. Soon enough, you’ll be able to notice that your worm population has increased in number when they start to fill up your worm bait composter after some time.

When raising worms also bear into mind your preferred fishing worms. But if you want the real deal live fishing bait, then you might want to consider using the nightcrawler kind (you can find nightcrawlers for sale at worm farms online). This type of worm has been guaranteed to stay alive longer when submerged in water.

Uncle Jim’s recommends the European Nightcrawlers

Gardenworm’s Super Red Worms are very easy to raise, and breeds real fast. Not only does it grow to about 6 inches long, it’s also heat and cold resistant. You can place these European Nightcrawlers on your lawn or garden, and are also perfect as fish bait. Get your supply today!

To know more about the product, check the European Nightcrawlers here.

Did you know that worms are capable of creating an organic fertilizer product? Yes, you’ve ready it right! Worms are not only good when it comes to breaking down decomposing organic scraps (scraps that are regularly accumulated from your yard or kitchen). They’re also great when it comes to turning these raw materials into a valuable source of compost. Application of worm castings on your garden or farm can offer your plants and soil with nutrients and more. Read more from this article to find out why castings from worms are priceless.

Castings – Priceless but very inexpensive to obtain

Worm castings compost is priceless but not in the monetary sense. So how to go about this? Well these are actually very cheap to obtain since you’ll only need a batch of worms, a composter, bedding materials, and some organic food for your start-up. You’ll just have to give the proper care and maintenance that these worms need, and you’re off to doubling the breed of your worms in no time. In this case, you’ll no longer have to worry about buying your new stock of worms as these soil creatures are also capable of reproducing quickly (you’ll be able to see newborn worms in more or less 6 weeks).  

Castings – Priceless and Profitable

Just imagine a double in numbers. It will only mean more worms and more opportunities for harvesting worm castings. But did you know that you can also sell your worms as fish bait to fishermen, or as a raw product for other dealers? But did you also know that castings from worms can be sold as well? You can actually. A lot of farmers and gardeners today are going green these days, and are now opting to use organic fertilizer products for their produce. So whenever you do decide to sell your worms and its by-products for a profit, you can surely make all the possibilities happen.

The benefits to using worm castings

There’s a lot that earthworm castings can do especially when these are applied on your soil, plants and other farm/garden produce. You can read through the list provided below to know what can be gained after using this worm by-product.

• Since worms prefer to eat nothing but organic materials, then expect these earth wonders to produce nothing but only nutritious material. Take for example a worn-out soil. When worm poop has been applied on the soil, this will gradually improve and be healthier-looking in no time (the soil texture will show improvements after some time).
• Whether you harvest these castings from worm composting bins or from other types of containers, nursing an eroded soil back to life will be back to its fit self. A healthy soil will be able to retain that much needed moisture/water, and nutrients for the plants that are rooted in it. 
• Harvesting castings from your wormery and applying these on your plants (whether on your flowers, herbs, vegetables, etc.) allows them to also receive additional nutrients. You’ll be able to experience an increase in yield, more vibrancy in colors, and more tastier produce.

Use Red Worms or Nightcrawler worms

Harvest worm castings and experience more of what these can potentially offer you. Also consider what kind of composting worms to use should you venture into this kind project anytime soon. You can also buy red worms or nightcrawler worms for this kind of undertaking. You can be sure that investing on these types of worms (particularly the red worm type) will certainly be worth your time and money.

Uncle Jim’s recommends the Red Wiggler worms

Experience the thrills of having to raise and breed your very own batch of Red Wiggler Worms. With Free shipping included, also get these earth wonders live right at your doorstep! They’re also guaranteed to be alive, wiggling, and insect/mite free! They’re also great for composting and will surely provide you more happier returns! Get your supply today!

To know more about the product, check the Red Wiggler worms here.

 Have you done any kind of recycling in your life? If you have but have only done the usual segregation of biodegradables from non-biodegradables, then you might want to consider composting your organic scraps (you can compost using different types of composting bins) and have these turned into ‘Black Gold’ (also known as compost). You’ll be surprised on how you can still make something out of these natural wastes. Now, composting not only helps you recycle, it will also help you produce composted materials out of organic scraps. What’s even more better is turning your solid compost into liquid-form. This is what you call Compost Tea.

Fruit Flies, Fungus Gnats and Maggots in compost

 You will experience some common household pests inside your worm bin should you neglect it over time. Along the way, you may also be able to encounter annoying insects such as fruit flies, fungus gnats or even maggots in compost. So you might want to give your worm bin, and of course your worms some regular care and maintenance. You will certainly need to do this to help you keep your worm composter free from pests. Know these insects in more detail by reading more from this article.

Pests are typically drawn to the smell of wastes

These insects are usually drawn to wastes that are packed with nitrogen, all the more when it’s the decaying kind. Let’s take flies for example. When they do find something that attracts their sense of smell, they immediately look for this. Now if it happens to be your fully exposed red wiggler worms composter, then you’re in trouble. The adult fly will surely find organic scraps that it can gorge on, and will eventually leave its eggs on your compost. Now if you haven’t noticed this yet, and time passes by, their eggs will hatch, and will then turn into maggots. These young insects will then eat your compost. As easy as that. So one word of advice though: Always keep your worm composter closed. Your compost worms will also be grateful for that.

Pest # 1: Fruit Flies

Fruit Flies are typically the ones that you see hovering over your exposed fruits. So you can just imagine these insects flying in and out of a composting worms bin. These small objects won’t harm you in any way but they can surely be a big annoyance to anybody who sees it. Anyway, their bodies are quite round and their color ranges from an orange to light brown shade.

Now if you’ve already seen these insects by your red wigglers composter, then there might be a lot of fruit skins (especially banana peels) inside it. What you can do to get rid of these pests is to take these peels out. You can only add these back into the bin should there be no more presence of these flies. 

Pest # 2 Fungus Gnats

Fungus Gnats are also of the flying kind, and are easily recognized for their black colored bodies. These pests are also very attracted to things such as fungus (thus the name) and moisture. And what better way then to feed their appetite is to swarm around a vermicomposting bin! But don’t be fooled as these insects can be both seen inside or outside of your home. They are that resourceful. So just like Fruit Flies, you can also get rid of these by taking out the things that they’re drawn in. But you can’t take out both moisture & fungus from your compost bin. But what you can do is to leave the bin slightly opened. What will happen here is the top layer of the compost will dry a little, whilst the lower portion of the compost will still be kept moist. These insects will now be drawn to the base of the bin rather than on top of it.

Pest # 3: Maggots

These 1/2-inch long, young insects are typically of a grayish brown color (the particular ones that are seen inside a red worms bin), and are very attracted to worm composters (just like fruit flies and fungus gnats). They’re actually good decomposers and won’t harm your worms but having them inside your worm bin will be such a big annoyance. But to experience maggots in compost, and getting rid of them at their peak will be harder on your end. So what you can do to be relieved from experiencing these common household pests further is to put in ample amounts of dry bedding materials. These will be able to soak-up excess moisture inside the composter. So if your bedding is drier (but not too dry though), then there will be smaller numbers of these insects being around after some time.

Uncle Jim’s recommends the Worm Kits

Experience the thrills of having your very own pre-packaged Worm Kits. With these, you can immediately start recycling organic scraps at home. Check-out our assortment of Worm Kits, and also get many more features in return!

To know more about the product, check the Worm Kits here.