If you’re a vermicomposting beginner, receiving your first shipment of worms in bedding can be equal parts exciting and a little confusing. That box arrives at your doorstep, you open it up, and then a thought hits you—“Wait a minute, where are all the worms?” At first glance, it might seem like your 1 lb of worms have gone missing. But don’t worry, they’re all there, snug and safe in their bedding.
This post will explain why you might not see a wriggling mass of worms as you imagined, why bedding is so important, and help you trust that your 1 lb of worms is ready to thrive.
Why Is There So Much Bedding?
When you open your worm shipment, the first thing you’ll notice is a lot of bedding. Bedding is the material that surrounds the worms inside the package. But what’s it doing there?
Here’s why bedding is essential:
- Worm Safety During Transit
During shipping, worms need a safe, comfortable environment that mimics their natural habitat. Proper bedding helps cushion the worms, protect them from stress, and regulate moisture and temperature levels during transit. Moist bedding is the best insulation for worms to travel in.
- Preventing Overcrowding
Bedding gives worms enough space to spread out. This prevents them from clumping together, reducing stress.
- Stress-Free Arrival
After their (probably bumpy) travel, bedding keeps worms calm and allows them to settle in before they make their way to your compost bin.
The Magic of “Diluted” Worms
Here’s what surprises most new vermicomposters: When worms are happy and healthy, they naturally spread out and blend into their bedding. This is why, when you first look at your worm shipment, it may seem like there is more soil and bedding in the package than actual worms. Don’t worry, your 1 lb of worms hasn’t gone anywhere!
What 1 lb of Worms Actually Looks Like:
- It’s About 1000 Worms!
Yes, that’s right! One pound of worms (usually red wigglers) can include about 1000 squirmy little composters. This is about 2 cups volume. While that sounds like a lot, when they distribute themselves inside the bedding, they can look less compact and harder to spot at first glance.
- Patience is Key
Gently sift through the bedding with your hands. You’ll start to see worms tucked away, happy and scattered. Give them a little time, and they’ll soon resurface.
What to Do Once Your Worms Arrive
- Open the Package
Remove your worm shipment from its box as soon as possible. Allowing air to circulate will help your worms acclimate.
- Inspect the Bedding
Take a look through the bedding carefully. Check that the worms are lively and moving. It’s normal for them to seem a little sluggish after their trip, but they’ll perk up once they’re in their new environment.
- Prepare Their New Home
Before transferring the worms, ready your composting bin with fresh bedding (like shredded paper, coconut coir, or peat moss). This helps them transition seamlessly.
- Relocate Your Worms
Carefully move the worms and their original bedding into your prepared compost bin. Over time, the worms will settle in and begin working their magic composting your organic waste into nutrient-rich castings!
Trust the Process
It’s natural to worry when you open your first worm shipment and don’t immediately see a huge swarm of critters. But rest assured, we’ve carefully measured your worms to make sure you’re getting exactly what you paid for. Worms thrive in the right environment, and all that bedding ensures their health and safety on their way to you.
Still have concerns or questions? Feel free to reach out to us! We love vermiculture as much as you do and are here to help every step of the way.
Your turn to get started! If you’re ready to create a thriving composting bin and want expert tips for your setup, Contact us or check out more of our resources. We’re so excited for you and your new composting adventure!
