My goal in seeking the density of worms per square foot was to get a better idea of the amount of “food” my system could process. As you suggested, my intent is to let the “…worm population grow into…[my] system…”.

Honestly, I have done lots of reading (and I always seem to wind up back at your wonderful site). And in my reading (I believe it was an article from Ohio State) there was mention of 1/2 pound (approximately 500 worms) per CUBIC foot. Just thought I would share that with you.

Again, thank you for your wonderful site.

Cheers,
Al

Manual of On-Farm Vermicomposting and Vermiculture states that:
“… densities, higher than 5 kg/m^2 (1 lbs/ft^2) begin to slow the reproductive urge, as competition for food and space increase. While it is possible to get worm densities up to as much as 20 kg/m^2 (4 lbs/ft^2) the most common densities for vermicomposting are between 5 and 10 kg/m^2 (1 to 2 lbs/ft^2). Worm growers tend to stock at 5 kg/m^2 and “split the beds” when the density has doubled, assuming that the optimum densities for reproduction have by that point been surpassed. …”

Remember, compost worm populations can be expected to double every 60 to 90 days (under certain conditions).

If worms are used for composting, then the more worms you have, the better. The density will stabilize at a certain point anyway.

Hope that clears it up a bit.

P.S. Bentley I agree one should let their worm population grow to the optimal density, not start with it. Half the recommended density is fine. You’re gonna have it double pretty soon anyway.