Q1: How many worms do I need to purchase with the cascade compost bin?

A: You should purchase about 1,000 worms to start your composter. After this initial purchase, the worm count will double every three months!

Q2: Can you mix worms and night crawlers?

A: Though not necessary, mixing red wigglers with night crawlers is okay.  To compliment this item we recommend the Uncle Jim's Super Reds European Night Crawlers.  (http://www.compostbins.com/compost-&-rain-barrel-equipment/compost-equipment/unclejims250superredseuropeannightcrawlers.cfm)

Q3: How do I decide between the 3, 4 or 5 tray worm factory? Do you need to fill all of the trays at once? Thanks.

A: You will want to decide how many trays to purchase based on how much waste your household will be generating. Essentially, the more members of your household you have, and the more compostable waste you generate, the more trays you should have. You do not need to fill all of your trays all at once; the worms will breed and fill your trays, self adjusting to fit the space you have.

Q4: What is the difference between a 3-, 4-, or 5-tray composter? How do I know what to choose?

A: Choosing the number of trays would depend on how many worms the containers are required to hold.  We carry small quantities of 1000 Uncle Jim's Red Worms.  Once the worms start to crowd the area additional trays would need to be ordered.

Q5: What is the difference between the 5 tray, 4 tray and 3 tray system. I'm a single guy and don't produce a lots of waste. Should I start with 3? and can I add to it later if need be? Do I still need 1000 worms?

A: The difference between the 5 tray, 4 tray and 3 tray is the amount of waste the worms compost.  Since you don't produce a lot of waste you should start with a 3 tray and you can indeed add more trays if needed later.  You should purchase about 1,000 worms to start your composter. After this initial purchase, the worm count will double every three months.

Q6: I ordered worms from you and they have arrived before my composter. What should I do with the worms until I get the compost bin?

A: The worms can last up to ten days in the packaging they arrived in. (Not the best, but they will last) Give them some water when they arrive.

If you're afraid they won't make it, you can make a temporary home for them instead. Put the worms into a plastic container about the size of a shoe box or bucket. Put some shredded black and white newsprint in the bottom that has been moistened (about the amount of a rung out sponge). This will act as food and bedding until your compost bin arrives and they can be placed into their new permanent home.