For fungal compost, soil biology & proper living soil systems Build better compost. Grow better soil. Do it properly. Improve fungal compost quality and biological activity Speed up stabilisation of finished Johnson–Su compost Boost microbial life for compost extracts and soil application Adding worms to a Johnson–Su bioreactor is one of the simplest ways to improve the final compost — but only when done at the right time and in the right way. These are the same composting worms we supply for wormeries (reds and dendras) —but in a Johnson–Su system, they are used differently. They are not there to process raw waste. They are there to refine, structure and biologically enrich finished compost. 🌱 How many worms do you need? If you’re using an IBC-based Johnson–Su system: Minimum: 500g per IBC Better: 1kg per IBC Best / fastest results: up to 2kg per IBC More worms = faster biological development. ⏱️ When should you add worms? This is critical. Only add worms once the compost has fully cooled. That means: The thermophilic (hot) phase is complete The material is stable Temperature is comfortable to touch Moist but not wet 👉 If it’s still hot — don’t add worms👉 If in doubt — wait 🪱 What worms are these? A proven composting mix: Eisenia fetida (Tiger / Red Wigglers) Dendrobaena veneta These are surface-dwelling composting worms, naturally found in: Manure heaps Leaf litter Compost piles They work in the top few inches, exactly where the biology is most active. Unlike garden worms (Lumbricus terrestris), they: Breed quickly Eat rapidly Thrive in rich organic material 🌾 Why add worms to a Johnson–Su system? Because worms: Improve structure of finished compost Increase microbial diversity Help stabilise organic matter Enhance fungal and bacterial balance Produce biologically active castings In short: 👉 They turn good compost into proper living compost At Lower Blakemere Farm, worms are a key part of how we build soil —from Bokashi to windrows to biological extracts. 🧱 Why bedding matters (and why we recommend it) Worms don’t just get tipped onto compost and magically thrive. They need a starting point. Bedding provides: Moisture retention Air pockets and structure A safe place for worms to settle Protection from compaction Johnson–Su compost can be dense — bedding helps worms establish quickly. 👉 Recommended Add a coir block or shredded cardboard/newspaper Wiggly Tip:Always introduce worms into a small bedding zone at the top — they’ll spread out naturally.
