How to Make a Worm Tower: A Simple Way to Boost Your Garden’s Health
A worm tower—sometimes called a worm hotel—is an easy and eco-friendly way to enrich your garden soil naturally. It provides a cozy home for composting worms, allowing them to break down organic waste and improve soil quality right where you need it. The best part? You can make one using a simple PVC pipe with a few strategic modifications.
What You’ll Need:
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A large PVC pipe (around 10–15 cm in diameter, 30–50 cm in length)
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A drill or saw to create holes
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Composting worms (like red wigglers)
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Organic waste (vegetable scraps, coffee grounds, eggshells)
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A lid or stone to cover the tower
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A shovel for installation
Step-by-Step Guide:
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Prepare the Pipe: Using a drill or saw, cut multiple holes (around 1 cm wide) along the bottom half of the pipe. These will allow worms to move in and out freely while aerating the soil.
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Choose a Location: Select a spot in your garden close to plants that will benefit from nutrient-rich soil. Dig a hole deep enough to bury at least half the PVC pipe.
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Install the Tower: Place the pipe vertically in the hole, ensuring the perforated section is underground. Pack the soil around it so it stays upright.
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Add Worms and Waste: Drop a handful of composting worms into the tower, followed by organic kitchen scraps. Avoid citrus or anything too acidic.
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Cover It Up: Place a lid, a stone, or a piece of wood over the opening to keep pests out and retain moisture.
Maintaining Your Worm Tower
Every few days, add new food scraps and a handful of dry leaves or shredded paper to balance moisture and airflow. The worms will work their magic, turning waste into nutrient-rich soil that spreads naturally through your garden.
Why Use a Worm Tower?
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Improves soil fertility
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Reduces food waste
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Supports plant health
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Attracts beneficial organisms
Our star tells us all about worm hotels (or worm towers) and cuddly worms! Give your child the gift of gardening! #gardening #garden