Starting a Earthworm Box Start by placing damp bedding material loosely in the box. Cut or tear corrugated cardboard or newspaper into 1 inch wide strips. Bedding should be moist, the consistency of a damp sponge. Earthworms need grit to physically break down their food. Add a little sand or topsoil.
Red worms are top feeders.
Put them on top. The worms will move down into the bedding. Feed the worms once a week, but don't overfeed them. Too much food will harm the worms, create odors, contribute to pest problems, and may lead to fermentation and subsequent acidity problems. Earthworms will suffocate if the bedding is too dry, because they breathe through their skin.