How to start a worm business?
Start small and learn first: get breeding stock, multiply it in one bin or bed, and only then expand and look for customers. Farming or greenhouse experience is a real advantage. My book sets out the whole plan from scratch.
This question came in from a reader in Israel. It’s one I get in many forms, so I’ve kept the reader’s own words (shortened) and expanded my answer for everyone thinking about the same step. Note: I don’t sell worms or worm farms myself; this site is about helping you do it.
The question: should I start a worm business?
“Hello I'm from Israel and just found out about this amazing stuff called worm farming… I work in a greenhouse but its not mine. So I thought about building a business.. […] A worm business would be a new thing in my area and I think I wouldn't have to much competition from other farmers. So I wondered if you could help me to get started and tell what i need to do to get my worm business of the groung? Would it be good to start one? I am a little confused about this.. I have about 3000 square meters of land to work with and think its a good way to start something of my own.”
My answer: start with a plan
The best way to start is with a plan from someone who has done it. In my book I share my own experience of starting a worm business from scratch. I’ve written it all down in my book How to Start a Profitable Worm Business on a Shoestring Budget. The printed book and the Kindle edition are sold on Amazon.
See what’s inside the book →Is a worm business a good way to be my own boss?
It can be, especially if you already work in farming. Worm farming is growing in popularity in many parts of the world, and being early in your area is a real opportunity. But no business is a sure thing, so start small, learn, and grow from what your worms and your customers teach you.
I have land. Should I start big?
No. 3000 m² is plenty of room to grow into, but start with a few bins or one bed. Worms multiply quickly when they’re happy, so a small, well-run start becomes a big herd without a big investment. Old bins, buckets and even bathtubs make good first beds.
What should I do first?
- Get breeding stock, bought or found: see start a worm business without buying worms.
- Learn to keep one bin healthy: starting a worm farm.
- Read why a worm business works as a home business.
- Find out who in your area buys worms, castings and worm tea.
Where can I read more?
Read what actual customers say about my book and the questions and answers about starting a worm business.
Just starting your first worm farm? The Easy Worm Farming Planner keeps you on track week by week.
Happy worming!
Stephan Kloppert
Nearly 30 years of worm farming in South Africa and Germany
