I believe what you are doing is fine. I do the same with two exceptions ( bedding and feeding). I continue light feeding and bedding covering the castings. You might say there isn't much difference in how I treat a newly started bed other than disturbing worms often while digging out castings as I use them.

What you are doing is exactly right. Keep the castings moist, but not wet. Let them breathe . Don't expose them to light. As you stated, you are keeping the microbes alive.

sbryce

Thanks I was hoping I was doing this correctly. I guess it surprises me that the castings remain moist . For the most part these wont be used till spring.

Are you talking about adding moisture? I usually end up putting harvested material upside down into a second bucket after a bit of time. The bottom is usually more damp and the top dryer so this equalizes it. Newly harvested material is usually even damper. This may be enough to replenish the moisture in the collection bin with no water added. I guess if I had to add moisture or if I needed a space for half a pumpkin I would put it on top cut side down to slowly leak and feed the microorganisms and the occasional worm. The harvested material stays damp for a long time in a 5 gallon bucket, at least at the bottom.