I wondered the same thing. I bought a few dozen from a bait shop and added them. I also went worm hunting last night as it was raining. Just went outside with a flashlight and collected at least 2 dozen. As I was putting them into my garden, I noticed a fat juicy worm climbing up the wood and into my garden. So I guess they can find a way :)

I too bought some from a bait shop and added dozens to my beds. I don't think any of them survived. I'm not sure if they were bad worms or they just didn't like Mel's Mix. They sure aren't getting through landscape fabric and three inches of gravel. I guess if I want the benefits of worms I need to get worm castings and supplement. /sigh

Here is a link that might be useful: Sinfonian's garden adventure!

I have an official "worm relocation officer", namely my three year old daughter. She is always on the watch for worms in the flower garden when I'm digging, and she diligently places the worms in my SFG. Keeps her happy, outside, and gardening. ;-)

Thanks everyone. I will collect worms from other places in the yard and throw them into the sfg. Hope they stay in there!

Many bait shops carry special breeds of worms that are easy to raise indoors. Your soil content will determine their survival. If possible it would be better to use native soil that is amended with lots of organic material to attract a native population of worms. The worms also move up and down the levels of soil based on moisture and temperature. If you have a barrier preventing that migration they may die due to soil temps being too high and unable to go deep. also they need a specific temp and PH too breed. All this is dependant on the species type.

there's been several threads on this subject. you might check out the vermicomposting forum. bottom line, worms won't bring much to the table, or survive long, in a bed with mel's mix and a weed barrier.

The words from the master himself:
Snibb: "Mel...here is a question I could not answer...if you put the landscape fabric down, how will worms get in the garden, or will they?..
Mel: "probably not But since Mel's mix is so loose and friable, you don't need them like you do with old fashioned single row gardening which needs all the help it can get."

For those of you who have read his book(s), you will instantly recognize his humor...I thought his point was excellent..