Worm Scoop

Harvesting is simply separating the worms from the composted material. There are several methods to harvest the worms and the worm castings. I think there are so many methods because this is one of the tasks that most don’t appreciate. Many worm composters are still searching for best worm harvesting method. Just remember, the fruits of the labor are worth it.

After a few months the worm bin bedding will be composted and the worms will be ready for some new material. When the worm bin looks ready to harvest it is time to prepare. The following method is one of the simplest harvesting methods to try with minimal materials and effort.

1. Stop feeding the worms for 1 or 2 weeks. This gives them a chance to digest some of the remaining material and makes them a little hungry for food.
2. Place some sweet yummy worm food in an onion sack or other mesh bag. Place the bag in one corner of the bin and let everything sit for 3 to 5 days. Your hungry worms will migrate to the bag.
3. Remove the bag of worms and harvest your vermicompost. Place the bag of worms in a newly prepared worm bin. If you don’t have a second bin, place the worms in a worm-friendly container that is dark and well ventilated.
4. Remove small amounts of compost material while watching for worms. Put any stray worms in the worm bag. Put the compost in a good compost storage container.
5. Once the material is removed, prepare the bin with bedding and food and empty the bag of worms in the worm bin.
6. Save the onion sack. In a few months you’ll start this process again.