How Do You Compost With Worms In Cold Temperatures?
Compost worms such as redworms or red wigglers feel the cold once their bin gets below 57 degrees Fahrenheit. If you keep your compost worms outdoors in an area with cold winters, you must find a way to keep the center of your compost bin above freezing so that the worms survive. Commercial vermiculturalists in Washington state, Wisconsin and even Alaska have found ways to compost with worms in cold temperatures. Experiment with the suggestions; in many climates, following just one of them will be sufficient. You’ll want your bin to stay warm but not heat up past 77 degrees. A compost thermometer from a nursery will tell you whether the bin is getting either too warm or too cold. Insulate your existing wooden outdoor worm bin. Cut Styrofoam or R-18 rigid insulation board to fit the lid and the four sides. Add ventilation holes lined up to existing ventilation holes. Glue the insulation boards to the existing bin. Stack hay bales around the bin as an alternative. Test the temperature; i
