How to Start Mealworm Farming
Mealworm farming is a simple, low-investment farming model that can be started at home with minimal space. This guide explains the complete process step by step, so beginners can start confidently without confusion or unnecessary cost. To understand the foundation of this business, first read What Is Mealworm Farming?
Step 1: Understand the Mealworm Life Cycle
Before starting, it’s important to understand how mealworms grow.
The life cycle has four stages:
Egg → Larva (Mealworm) → Pupa → Beetle
• Larvae are sold as feed
• Beetles are kept for breeding
• A balanced cycle ensures continuous production
Step 2: Choose a Suitable Space
Mealworm farming does not require land or sunlight.
Ideal space requirements:
• A small room, store, or corner of a house
• Dry and clean environment
• No direct sunlight
• Good airflow
Even a single shelf or rack is enough to start.
For poultry feed production, understanding how to start a mealworm farm for chickens helps ensure consistent protein supply.
Step 3: Arrange Basic Equipment
You don’t need expensive tools. Basic setup includes:
• Plastic trays (3–4 inches deep)
• Wheat bran (main feed)
• Starter mealworms or beetles
• Mesh cloth for covering trays
• Digital thermometer (recommended)
Start small and expand gradually.
Step 4: Set Up the Trays
• Add 1.5–2 inches of wheat bran in each tray
• Place mealworms evenly
• Add small moisture food pieces (carrot or potato)
• Cover trays with breathable mesh
Avoid overcrowding to prevent heat buildup.
Step 5: Maintain Proper Environment
Mealworms grow best under stable conditions:
• Temperature: 24–28°C
• Humidity: 40–60%
• Light: Low or indirect
Check trays daily but avoid unnecessary handling.
Step 6: Feeding and Cleaning Routine
• Add moisture feed every 2–3 days
• Clean trays every 12–15 days
• Replace old bran with fresh bran
• Remove waste (frass) regularly
Clean trays lead to healthy and fast-growing worms.
Step 7: Breeding for Continuous Production
For long-term farming:
• Separate beetles into breeding trays
• Remove pupae into a separate tray
• Allow beetles to lay eggs peacefully
This ensures uninterrupted production every month.
Step 8: Start Selling Mealworms
Once worms reach market size, you can sell them to:
• Poultry and quail farms
• Fish farmers
• Bird and pet shops
• Reptile owners
Start with local buyers and expand gradually.
Common Beginner Mistakes to Avoid
• Overfeeding moisture
• Poor ventilation
• Using contaminated bran
• Mixing beetles with large larvae
• Ignoring cleaning schedules
Avoiding these mistakes saves time and losses.
Once you understand the basics, learn the full growth process in Mealworm Lifecycle Explained.
Conclusion
Mealworm farming is an excellent option for beginners looking for a low-cost, scalable farming business. With simple tools, proper care, and consistent routine, anyone can start mealworm farming successfully. Begin small, learn the process, and grow step by step.