Sorry, I can't help with local sources; I just use the worms from the garden. Try the vermicomposting site for more information on raising them.

Here is a link that might be useful: vermicomposting

Thanks for the link. Most of the folks over there at teh vermicomposting site agree that you need to get a soecific type of redworm, Eisenia fetida, to make it work properly. Is that not your experience?

brian, here is where I found some answers.

http://www.thewormfarm.net/index.html

And I went through my county extension agent to ask for direction.

Good luck!

I haven't seen a local (to Roanoke) source either. I believe I ordered my worms from an outfit in PA originally. If you are absolutely desperate to get worms right away, you could try a local bait shop. Most carry red worms, but you'll pay more and not be exactly sure of what you're getting.

I would think ordering worms a little later in the year (once the weather has cooled a bit) would be a good idea, even in warm weather you can expect some worm death during shipping.

And you can start with a single one pound order of worms and let them multiply on their own, rather than getting several pounds and spending more than you need to. Unless of course, you would rather have more or are starting a large bin.

I started a COW with one pound and had a full bin within three months.

The vermi-forum has lots more advice and experience, obviously. My only advice is "don't worry!" The worms will take of themselves for the most part, if you provide a nice home and some food for them. And don't over-feed, you'll know by the smell when you do, or if sour crop breaks out. (Yuck.)

Good luck and have fun with your bin!

Kent

Thanks, everyone!