Find composting worms in Arizona
Estimated reading time: 4 minutes
Many people are not sure where to find composting worms in Arizona. Many believe that composting is impossible because of the summer sun. Arizona is one of the hottest states in the contiguous US. While composting outdoors can present difficulties, I’m all about composting in a small space or apartment. That means – you too can vermicompost, even if you live in Arizona.
Today’s blog aims to help you find some resources to help you on your composting journey.
If you’re looking to go from reading blogs to starting your bin(s), you need to find worms. Of course, you could always purchase worms from our friends over at Meme’s Worms (clicking this link helps support the website, thanks in advance!). I also want to compile all statewide resources while supporting local businesses to help you get started.
Places to get red wigglers in Arizona
Looking in your backyard
A simple yet effective way to gather worms for your bin is by searching for them in your backyard or the nearby park. Just flip over some rocks and do some digging, and you’ll soon have a collection of worms. It’s important to note that you may come across worms other than red wigglers using this method. However, this may prove to be a challenging task during the scorching Arizona summers.
One of the reasons I suggest this method first is because:
- It’s free
- Harms fewer worms in the process
- You also bring beneficial bacteria that help your worms get established.
Many people think all you want in a worm bin is the worms. However, bacteria, mites, and other decomposers assist the worms in decomposition. Bacteria help break down your food scraps. Once the bacteria make the food soft enough, your worms can gobble it up.
I do not live in AZ, so I don’t know how valuable this tip is- but hell, give it a shot.
Check fishing supply stores.
You can find worms at your local bait and fishing shop. It may seem that you’re looking to keep them as pets. However, many bait shop owners are happy to sell worms to you, just like anyone else, regardless of their use.
A note of caution here- many bait shops do not sell redworms exclusively. Often they sell nightcrawlers, as they are more profitable worms to sell to people who fish. As noted before, Nightcrawlers are also excellent for composting but eat slower than red worms.
Asking plant stores or farms
Since worms make such nutrient-rich compost, many farm and garden centers sell worms. Often they will advertise them on their website, or sometimes you need to call ahead.
Even if they don’t sell their worms directly, you may find it helpful to ask if you can look for worms in their compost. Since composting worms only live in the top six inches of earth, you won’t need to dig far. If you choose this method, call ahead, and bring your trowel and container.
Purchase local worms online
Another way to find worms in Arizona is to check eBay, Craigslist, and Etsy. Some folks don’t consider these as places to purchase worms. Online selling platforms allow red worm lovers to have a side business.
Plus, sellers on eBay and Etsy have a list of reviews to help you decide where to buy your worms.
You can read everyone’s reviews and make sure that you are
Click here to check Craigslist
Stores to find worms in Arizona
Good news if you want to start composting at home in Arizona. Your state has a lot of people on Craigslist and eBay. However, you have a few options if you prefer picking up your worms in person. I bet there are many other formal businesses selling worms, but I could not find their website. If you sell worms or know a place that sells worms, Please submit it below.
Here are two stores that I was able to track down.
Arizona Worm Farm
8430 South 19th Avenue
Phoenix, Arizona 85041
Inch By Inch Arizona
2717 S 6th Ave
Tucson, AZ
Add your website
Please share them below if you know of other websites where you can directly buy red worms in Alabama. Our goal is to make it easier for vermicomposters to get started.
