Feeding Matrix and Simple Guidelines
Here is a simple list of rules of thumb, when feeding your worms:
Wait 24 hours to feed, after introduction of new worms to a bin.
In a bin, feed only what can be consumed in a 24 hour period.
Chop food into pea size pieces, but not into a slurry.
Lightly cover food with soil or cardboard. This offers protection and will reduce smells and problems with gnats and fruit flies.
Keep moisture levels high, but not wet.
Rain water is best. If city water must be used, fill a bucket and leave it out for 24 hours. This will reduce the chlorine and chloramines to acceptable levels.
Worms have a symbiotic relationship with bateria and microbe populations. The bacteria and microbes will break down matter.The worms will then ingest the matter, bacteria and microbes to produce castings. You will see other creatures and organisms in your colony. This is natural. This is why worm castings are "Black Gold."
Worms Eat...
aged grass clippings, leaves and other plant matter
any shredded, non-glossy paper, including credit card and bank statements
shredded cardboard
compost
egg shells
coffee grounds, filters, and tea bags
vegetable scraps
bread and noodles
livestock manure
feed onions in moderation
Avoid...
glossy paper products
fresh grass clippings, age them 1-2 weeks to avoid heat build up
meat products
dairy products
jalapenos and other spicy peppers
vinegar
free salt, like chips, popcorn or nuts
cat and dog feces*
citrus scraps**
PINEAPPLE***
*Worms will digest cat and dog waste, but it is advisable to avoid using these casting on food crops. To dispose of this waste stream, start a seperate colony and use the castings for your lawn and non-fruit / nut bearing trees.
**Save your citrus scraps in your freezer. When you can fill a blender, add enough water to create a slurry, about the consistency of pea soup. Now you have an organic pesticide and fire ant killer. Just apply to mounds and around your compost pile for natural control!
***Avoid pineapple at all cost !!!!!!! There is an enzyme in this fruit that will dissolve a worm. Just feed it to birds or squirrels, away from your worms.