You set up your red worms in their lovely new home and they start making compost. Everything is going fine then after a month or two you may discover unwanted pests have found your worm bin.

It is better to prevent pests than to have to wage war after they arrive.

• Never add outdoor garden soil to your wiggler bin. You could bring in slugs, snails, centipedes etc.

• Bury food wastes in the compost 2-3 inches deep- don't just place it on top.

• Keep your bins covered.

• Keep the worm bedding moist, but not wet.

• If using leaves or grass clippings in the bedding- roast them 1st at 180 F for 45-60  minutes to get rid of any ants or other creatures.

• A layer of dry leaves, or grass clippings on top of the bedding will help prevent flies from laying eggs in the bedding. Remember to bake leaves or grass 1st before adding to bedding.

• Watch your PH levels. The 6-7 PH range preferred by the red wigglers discourages mites, springtails and their friends.