The dirt is sphagnum peat moss and the worms that are too big to feed off go into that so they pupate and come out as moths in about 3-4 weeks. Eggs follow in another 3-4 days and they hatch 3-4 days after that. Then put the eggs on the lid of the cups upside down with the chow in the bottom of the cup (which is at the top when turned upside down). Baby worms hatch and climb the grid to get at the food and poop falls onto the lid as they eat.