By the end of this lesson: you will run a useful check in five to ten minutes.

A weekly check should be brief and consistent. Look at the surface, smell the bin, open the last feeding pocket, feel moisture in several zones and check the sump if fitted. Feed only when the evidence supports it.

Do not count every worm. Do not empty trays to prove they are alive. The point is to detect change early without creating disturbance.

Use the same order every time. Routine prevents you from forgetting the boring but important checks while becoming distracted by one dramatic-looking worm.

• Look
• Smell
• Check previous feed
• Feel moisture
• Check structure and airflow
• Inspect sump
• Decide: feed, adjust or leave alone