I’ve been working on composting using another method besides trench composting for about two months now. I’ve enjoyed it so far, and been honestly trying to compost anything that is possible to compost. One thing I noticed though, as a moved from my brief time using a bucket (there were some holes), to a pile, is that I didn’t see worms anymore. So I come to you composting experts to ask how can I bring more worms to my shady compost pile on clay soil.
Just to be sure, your pile is directly on the actual soil? Second, how are the moisture levels? In my pile, I noticed an increase in worms when I things were wetter than they were before. Depending on your setup that might be tricky to control. But moreover, time. In the first months I hardly spotted any worms in my pile. After say two years, there are plenty. Never added them myself, they just found the party.
My pile is on the soil (I actually have two right now, but I’m referring to the main one). It just rained not too long ago so the pile is decently wet as of now, but I think it generally stays at a decent moisture level. I try to aim for the wrung out towel level recommended by the infographic on the main page.
Sounds good to me. I wouldn’t sweat it and just give it more time. You have a somewhat decent balance of greens and browns? Not trying to compost a humongous amount of orange peels?
Yea I think the balance is fine lol. There was a period when I was shredding up a lot of browns, but I think I have readjusted enough
The worms are probably hiding in the ground. They probably still go up to process the compost but then they stay in the soil when they are not eating.
So I would not worry, they are still there but just harder to see.
Tell them you put some shit in there.
I agree with @drk that moisture and time will play a large role in how many worms you’ll find in the pile. Another factor will be the temperature of the pile or in areas of the pile, since worms will leave (if possible) as temps climb above 77F/25C and can perish at 95F/35C. In our own compost piles we’ve found higher proportions of worms after the main thermophilic processes have run their course.
What’s your pile made up of, how large is it, and how long has it been in place?