When starting up a new worm bin, things are changing week to week. While you are going through your startup, it is especially helpful to keep good records – a logbook, calendar, or a pad on a clipboard.

Frequently you will find yourself trying to remember something you noticed in the past, or something new you tried a few weeks ago. You’ll be glad you wrote things down. Any observations and dates will help you piece together what is happening over time.

You can make your own charts with a spreadsheet (see example below) or tablet of paper. Use rows for the dates, and columns to record your additions of food, water, temperature, and other things you want to track. Also leave space for notes about the bin conditions, feedstock, or finished compost you just collected. Keep your notes near the worm bin and updating will become a part of your routine.