By the end of this lesson: you will decide whether to expand, harvest stock or leave the system alone.

Split a healthy population when there is a clear reason: a new bin is ready, a breeder rotation requires it, the active area is crowded or you need to protect stock from an upcoming harvest. Do not split a weak colony simply because the calendar says so.

A split reduces the workforce in both systems. Feeding must be reduced until each bin re-establishes. Include mature bedding and a mixture of adults, juveniles and cocoons where practical unless the purpose is specifically to separate life stages.

After a split, record the date and stop making extra changes. Give the worms time to settle before judging the result.

Remember the old Chinese proverb.  The man who chases two rabbits catches none!

Top Tip – Write a transfer plan for one future split: purpose, receiving bin, bedding preparation, proportion moved, food reduction and review date.