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Answer
Dec 10, 2021 - 05:12 PM
The most frequent cause for moldy bedding is too much moisture and heat in your bedding. Three things lead to this happening:
1. Bedding depth too deep: When your bedding is 1.5 to 2.0" deep, heat and moisture get trapped in the bottom layers and can't escape through the top.
2. Using vegetables that emit moisture: We find carrots are the best source of water for worms kept in bedding. As they degrade they turn 'bendy' rather than emitting water. For example if you left a cut potato, apple, or carrot out on a paper towel, the paper under the carrot would stay dry.
3. Not sifting out the worm castings: When worms create castings (worm poop) it migrates to the bottom of the trays. It generates lots of heat and creates the perfect environment for mold and bacteria to grow.
You should ideally sift the bedding once a month at least, and you can use the castings in your garden. It's a great amendment to your plants and lawn! Wash and dry your container, return your worms and add new bedding.
1. Bedding depth too deep: When your bedding is 1.5 to 2.0" deep, heat and moisture get trapped in the bottom layers and can't escape through the top.
2. Using vegetables that emit moisture: We find carrots are the best source of water for worms kept in bedding. As they degrade they turn 'bendy' rather than emitting water. For example if you left a cut potato, apple, or carrot out on a paper towel, the paper under the carrot would stay dry.
3. Not sifting out the worm castings: When worms create castings (worm poop) it migrates to the bottom of the trays. It generates lots of heat and creates the perfect environment for mold and bacteria to grow.
You should ideally sift the bedding once a month at least, and you can use the castings in your garden. It's a great amendment to your plants and lawn! Wash and dry your container, return your worms and add new bedding.
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