Production Of Worms

Worms are very vital in recycling. So, they are produced in large quantities in artificially prepared beds. In these beds, several factors affect the breeding, growth and health of these worms. These factors are temperature, moisture, aeration, pH and light.

Temperature and Moisture

At freezing temperature, worms perish. The worms prosper at temperatures of 85 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit. So, during production, the soil bed temperature must be between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit for cocoon development and hatching. For commercial production, the range is 60 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Worms are in need of the correct amount of moisture for growth. So, the beds ought to be slightly moist and not waterlogged. Exposure to direct sunlight must be strictly avoided. Once the worms are nicely established, the cocoon production is progressed by drying the beds in such a way, that the top two inches are scarcely moist. Further, the normal moisture content can be maintained by sprinkling water.

Aeration and pH

In conditions of low oxygen and high carbon dioxide or oxygenated water, worms can survive. But if there is no oxygen, they may die. If the beds become waterlogged, oxygen may get reduced. The anaerobic bacteria give rise to poisonous substances. Hence, there must be sufficient bed aeration. In a pH range of 4.2 (acidic) an 8.0 (alkaline), worms can grow. However, during commercial production a pH of 7.0 is maintained. The value of pH is checked with litmus paper or a pH kit. The acidity of the bedding material is neutralized with ground limestone.

Lights and Beds

Due to high humidity and warm temperatures, worms may leave the bed. If lights are placed around the bed, such an action does not take place. The use of lights is particularly crucial during violent storms and high rainfall. The worm bed may be kept on a concrete slab. Alternatively, it can be created on a brick, pine or cypress boards on the ground. In case of pine and cypress, minimum 2-inch thick boards have to be used. The width of the bed should not be more than 30 to 40 inches. The reason is that the center of the bed becomes inaccessible. The height of the bed must not be more than 18 inches. Another alternative is to grow worms in pits in the ground or in row piles on the soil surface.

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