Earthworms are one of nature’s most diligent decomposers. They feast on dead and decomposing organic matter, deriving their nutrition from the bacteria and fungi on these decomposing materials, and turning it into castings, which dramatically alters soil structure, water movement/retention, nutrient dynamics and plant growth.
We have been raising and maintaining the same closed herd of Red Wiggler (Eisenia fetida) worms since 2005. We do consider our herd to be “pure stock” and does not contain any other worm species to our knowledge. We do not use third party vendors/drop shippers to fulfill orders.
If you’re looking for a composting method that’s inexpensive, efficient and entertaining, worm farming may be for you!
To arrange pickup from the shop (4516 Clearview Pkwy., Metairie) or Local Cooling Farms (57355 Sam Mizell Rd., Bogalusa), call or text Grant Estrade at 504-234-3564.
Red Wigglers are $50.00 per LB (1000+-worms), and come packed in the same bedding that they are raised in to ensure a successful transition.
Worm Bedding: We also offer the same pre-composted worm bedding that we use to raise our Red Wigglers. $12.00 per cubic foot (7.48 gallons). Also available by the cubic yard (27 cubic feet); Call Grant 504-234-3564 for details.
Earthworms perform many functions:
Stimulate microbial activity: While earthworms actually obtain their nutrition from microorganisms versus the decaying matter itself, even more microorganisms are present in their manure – known as casts or castings – than in the organic matter that is composted or decomposed without the presence of earthworms. This increased microbial activity facilitates the cycling of nutrients from organic matter and converts it into forms that are more easily taken up by plants.
Mix soil: As they eat organic matter, earthworms move large amounts of soil from the lower strata to the surface and also bury and shred rotting organic matter on the soil surface down into deeper soil layers.
Increase water retention and infiltration: Earthworms enhance porosity as they move through the soil and by fragmenting organic matter, they increase water-holding capacity of soils.
Create tunnels for root growth: The tunnels made by deep-burrowing earthworms are lined with readily available nutrients and make it easier for roots to penetrate deep into the soil.
In controlled settings like a backyard worm bin, earthworms can also efficiently convert kitchen scraps and garden waste into vermicompost to nourish your garden.
From our large vermicompost operation at Local Cooling Farms, we also sell screened worm castings as a soil amendment. With a medium-to-moderate NPK (Nitrogen-Phosphorous-Potassium) range, high beneficial microbial/fungal counts, and other plant-friendly qualities such as fungal root rot prevention and nutrient absorption, worm castings are the highest quality compost or soil amendment product available.
Interested in buying earthworms?
To arrange pickup at our shop in Metairie or our farm, Local Cooling Farms, in Bogalusa, please call or text Grant at 504-234-3564.
An invoice will be emailed or texted via Square. Payment is required to place order. You will be notified by phone, email, and/or text as to when your order will be ready for pickup. Your order must be picked up within 3 days from ready-to-pickup date.
Because we do not mechanically screen and place the worms in unfamiliar bedding when we pull your order, the worms will not be stressed and the pH and microbiology is dialed in, so your chance of starting a successful worm bin increases dramatically.
For best success, have your worm bin and bedding ready to go. For a good video and worm bin tutorial go to Captain Matt’s video/channel.
