How to Start Worm Composting at Home: Expert Advice from Cathy Nesbitt

As flower farmers, we’re always looking for ways to work in harmony with nature, and one of the most effective yet often overlooked methods is composting. In a recent episode of the Flower Farmer Forum podcast, I had the pleasure of speaking with Cathy Nesbitt, also known as the ‘Laughing Bean Queen’ and founder of Cathy’s Crawley Composters. Cathy has dedicated her career to educating people about the benefits of indoor composting with worms, and let me tell you—it’s a game changer for gardeners and flower farmers alike!

Why Indoor Composting?

Not everyone has the luxury of a large backyard or expansive compost piles, but that shouldn’t stop anyone from reducing waste and enriching their soil. Indoor composting is a fantastic solution for those with limited space, and vermicomposting (composting with worms) is an easy, odor-free way to turn kitchen scraps into nutrient-rich soil. As Cathy shared, worms do an incredible job breaking down organic material while keeping our environment cleaner.

The Science Behind Worm Composting

Successful vermicomposting relies on the right balance of materials. Worms thrive in a mix of carbon (brown materials like shredded newspaper, cardboard, or dry leaves) and nitrogen (green materials like fruit and vegetable scraps). This balance ensures the composting process remains aerobic, preventing bad odors and promoting healthy decomposition.

Another key takeaway? Temperature, moisture, and airflow play significant roles in maintaining a thriving worm bin. Cathy emphasized that an ideal temperature range is between 55-77°F. Proper ventilation keeps the compost aerated, while moisture levels should be similar to a wrung-out sponge. Too much water can drown the worms, while too little can slow decomposition.

Pro Tips for Worm Composting

One of my favorite tips from Cathy was about freezing food scraps before adding them to the bin. Freezing breaks down cell walls in food, making it easier for worms to digest, which speeds up the composting process. However, there are a few food scraps to avoid—citrus, garlic, and onions can create an acidic environment that worms dislike.

Another interesting fact? Worms self-regulate their population based on available space and resources, so you never have to worry about an overrun worm bin.

From Accidental Entrepreneur to Composting Educator

Cathy’s journey into vermicomposting started as a personal challenge and quickly evolved into a mission to educate others. She now hosts workshops and outreach programs, helping individuals and businesses embrace sustainable waste management. Her passion is contagious, and she truly believes that composting is not just about reducing waste—it’s about fostering a deeper connection with nature.

A Simple Step Toward Sustainability

For those new to composting, starting with a small worm bin is an easy and impactful step toward sustainability. It’s low-maintenance, eco-friendly, and incredibly rewarding—especially when you see your plants thriving with nutrient-rich soil. Cathy’s enthusiasm for composting reminded me that gardening isn’t just about growing flowers; it’s about working with nature in a way that benefits both our crops and the planet.

If you’ve ever been curious about composting but weren’t sure where to start, I highly recommend giving vermicomposting a try. Trust me, your flowers (and the environment) will thank you!