Mealworm substrate

[Johnny829]

Hi guys!

So I'm hope to get suggestions of cheap bulk mealworm substrate besides wheat bran. I'm planning to have my own mealworm farm and starting big because I'll be having 35 chickens. And I want to treat them good everyday. I was told wheat bran is the best bedding for mealworms. Unfortunately, I have literally driven to every single feed store near me (South Bend, IN), Rural King, Tractor Supply Co., whole food store, and grocery stores which I guess they may have in bulk and cheap. And none of them have what I want. I'm looking for a few 50 lb bags because again, I will be needing a lot of mealworms everyday.

Then I started online searching, they do have $15 for a 50 lb bag but the shipping fee would be $50. So I don't know what I can do at this moment. I live in South Bend, IN and I believe I have searched all possible stores near me that may sell them in bulk and cheap. But I got nothing. So please let me know you happen to know anywhere that sell them cheap near me or give me some suggestions of mealworm substrate besides wheat bran and I can easily buy in bulk and cheap near me. Thank you!!

 

[DobieLover]

I started my colony on chick starter (non-medicated, of course), whole wheat flour and dehydrated milk. They did fine.
I've since ditched raising mealworms as I have way too much going on in my life to take care of the colony and it was stinking to high heaven.

 

[Broodygranny]

I use corn meal and the unsweetened cheap brand of cheerios. I use carrots banana peels and potatoes for moisture. They have been doing fine for a year. Just make sure your lid allows ventilation without escape. If moisture can collect, then you will have mold, and rot, and it will stink!

 

[Broodygranny]

I mean you want ventilation, but you dont want the meal worms to escape. I have thin breathable cloth covering the top, but tied very secure.

 

[igorsMistress]

I used oatmeal, not instant, and powdered milk.