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:

• A large PVC pipe (around 10–15 cm in diameter, 30–50 cm in length)

• A drill or saw to create holes

• Composting worms (like red wigglers)

• Organic waste (vegetable scraps, coffee grounds, eggshells)

• A lid or stone to cover the tower

• A shovel for installation

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. 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.

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. Add Worms and Waste: Drop a handful of composting worms into the tower, followed by organic kitchen scraps. Avoid citrus or anything too acidic.

5. 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?

• Improves soil fertility

• Reduces food waste

• Supports plant health

• 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