If you're new to worm composting, you
might be surprised to learn that worms need grit to survive and thrive.
Composting worms, such as red wigglers, like chickens, have gizzards, muscular
digestive organs, which rely on grit to function effectively. Without it, worms
can’t break down food efficiently, which generally leads to health issues, a
less productive worm bin, and could ultimately prove fatal.
So, whether you are only just setting up
your new worm composting system or refreshing your bin with new substrate, it’s
important to add a source of grit to support the worms’ digestion.
Good Grit Sources
There are several great natural and
affordable grit source options for vermicomposting environments, including play sand, finely crushed eggshells,
oyster shell flour, and mineral-rich organic garden soil.
Each of these options can help the red
wigglers’ digestive process. Crushed eggshells, being a common kitchen waste
item, are especially popular with home composters as they add valuable calcium
to the bin. In some cases, small pebbles or gritty dirt from your yard can work
effectively too, provided it hasn't been treated with chemicals or pesticides.
Best Grit For Composting Bins
After a lot of experimentation with multiple
types of grit, we found that play sand is one of the most reliable and
cost-effective grit options for any worm farmer. It’s clean, easy to apply, and
can be readily found at almost any hardware store for around $5 (or less) per
bag. Plus, it takes just a few handfuls to properly prepare a worm composting
bin using it. Its fine texture makes it easy for red wigglers to use, and it
blends seamlessly into most bins’ bedding materials.
Adding a small amount of grit every time you refresh your worm bin bedding ensures your composting worms always have access to what they need to digest their food and stay healthy, helping the health of your overall composting system.
Final Thoughts
Adding grit to your vermicomposting system is among the simplest, yet vital steps to the worm bin. It supports your worms' digestion, promotes their overall health, and helps keep the red wigglers productive. Best of all, it’s a source that is among the easiest to obtain and affordable to purchase. So, when you are considering things you need for your vermicomposting system, don’t overlook grit as a crucial inclusion in it.
