Wondering what the best worms for composting are? Not all worms are created equal—at least not when it comes to composting. While earthworms in your backyard might be great for aerating soil, they’re not cut out for the demanding job of processing food scraps. That’s where composting worms come in.
This guide will introduce you to the best worms for composting and help you decide which species is right for your worm bin or composting system.
The MVP: Red Wigglers (Eisenia fetida)
Red wigglers are the gold standard of composting worms. These hard-working critters are the Beyoncé of the worm world—efficient, versatile, and resilient.
Why They’re the Best:
- Thrive in organic waste.
- Reproduce quickly.
- Handle a wide range of temperatures (ideal: 55–77°F).
Pro Tip: Start your bin with 1 pound of red wigglers (about 1,000 worms) for every square foot of surface area.
The Runner-Up: European Nightcrawlers (Eisenia hortensis)
Slightly larger than red wigglers, European nightcrawlers are a great choice if you’re looking for dual-purpose worms. In addition to composting, they’re fantastic for fishing bait.
Why They’re Great:
- Process food scraps efficiently.
- Tolerate cooler temperatures better than red wigglers.
- Great for outdoor bins or worm towers.
Fun Fact: European nightcrawlers are also called “super reds” due to their larger size.
The Wild Card: Indian Blues (Perionyx excavatus)
Indian blues are composting powerhouses but require specific conditions to thrive. They’re best suited for tropical climates.
Why They’re Unique:
- Work quickly to process food scraps.
- Thrive in warm, humid environments.
- Require careful monitoring to prevent escape (they’re active explorers).
Pro Tip: Use Indian blues only if you can maintain a consistently warm bin environment.
Comparison Chart
| Worm Type | Ideal Temperature | Processing Speed | Special Traits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Red Wigglers | 55–77°F | High | Best all-around composting worm. |
| European Nightcrawlers | 50–75°F | Medium | Great for compost and fishing. |
| Indian Blues | 70–85°F | Very High | Thrive in tropical climates. |
Where to Buy Composting Worms
When sourcing worms, quality matters. Look for trusted suppliers like:
- Meme’s Worms: A reliable source for red wigglers and other species. Our favorite supplier for both Red Wigglers & European Nightcrawlers
- Local Garden Centers: Check for composting worms in your area.
- Online Retailers: Many reputable sellers ship worms directly to your door.
FAQs About Composting Worms
Q: Can I use regular earthworms for composting?
Nope! Earthworms prefer soil and won’t survive in a compost bin. Stick to red wigglers or other composting species.
Q: How many worms do I need to start?
1 pound (about 1,000 worms) is ideal for most beginner bins.
Q: What if my worms die?
Don’t panic! Evaluate the conditions in your bin (moisture, temperature, food) and adjust. You can always restock from a trusted supplier.
Some Useful Worm Composting Links
- Learn How to Start Worm Composting.
- Explore Troubleshooting Common Worm Bin Problems.
- Discover 5 Easy Ways to Use Vermicompost in Your Garden.
Final Thoughts On Best Worms for Composting
The success of your composting system starts with choosing the right worms. Red wigglers are the go-to choice for most composters, but European nightcrawlers and Indian blues offer unique benefits for specific setups. Whatever you choose, your worms will work tirelessly to turn scraps into soil-enriching gold.
Ready to get started? Grab your worms, set up your bin, and let the composting magic begin!
