Types of Wood to Use for Nightcrawler Boxes

Lumbricus terrestris, commonly known as night crawlers, are large earthworms that live in all soil types and are found around the world. Night crawlers are so named because they primarily feed at the surface at night, serving as natural soil aerators that leave behind nutrient rich castings which fertilize the soil. Worms are raised in boxes to sell as fishing bait, as food for other animals, or for vermicomposting. Does this Spark an idea?

Worm Beds

The boxes constructed for raising night crawlers are called beds and can vary in size according to the number of worms being farmed. Plastic bins have been used for raising worms, however GardenWorm recommends using wood as it has natural airflow and provides insulation from heat and cold. The wood chosen must be able to endure some amount of moisture and provide a safe environment for the night crawlers.

Woods to Avoid

Particle board engineered from pressed saw dust and glue is not a viable option because it falls apart when wet. Never use pressure treated wood; though designed to stand up to moisture, it is treated with the poison arsenic. Reclaimed wood that has been painted should be sanded to the bare wood prior to construction. Do not use wood that is highly aromatic such as cedar, as it is also a natural insect repellent. Other aromatic woods include sandalwood, juniper and fir.

Pine

Although pine is classified with aromatic woods, its scent is not too overpowering. Pine is the most common and least expensive of the solid woods. Plan construction of the night crawler box using one inch thick boards. A variety of widths, from four inches up to twelve inches, can be suitable depending on the size needed. Construct the box with gaps between the boards and line the box with with landscaping fabric for the best aeration. Choose boards that do not have any signs of pitch, or remove any visible pitch prior to construction. Pieces of 1-by-2-inch pine can be used to provide support for the corners of plywood boxes. Birch is another safe wood choice, but this hardwood may be too expensive for this particular use.

Plywood

Untreated, exterior grades of plywood can be used in constructing night crawler boxes. Plywood is inexpensive and it is easy to plan the cuts with little wasted material. One sheet can yield two open boxes or one large box with a lid. Constructing boxes from construction scraps of plywood is not only a free way to obtain wood, but also earth-friendly.