FAQs, Shipping & Returns

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who is Rich Roots?

We’re a Brisbane-grown team creating simple, natural plant food from mealworm frass produced and packed locally in Queensland, Australia.
Learn more about our story →

What is mealworm frass?

Mealworm frass is the nutrient-rich material left by mealworms. It contains naturally occurring nutrients, organic matter and chitin that help support healthier soil, stronger roots and thriving plants.
Learn more about mealworm frass on our Blog →

What is in Rich Roots mealworm frass fertiliser?

Just one ingredient: 100% raw mealworm frass.
There are no synthetic fertilisers, added chemicals, fillers or unnecessary extras.

What nutrients does it contain?

Our mealworm frass has been independently tested and contains Nitrogen 3.71%, Phosphorus 1.13%, Potassium 1.88%, Carbon 38.5%, Sulfur, Calcium, Magnesium and other naturally occurring trace elements.
As a raw natural product, nutrient levels may vary slightly between batches.

What does mealworm frass do for soil?

Its organic matter helps support soil structure, moisture retention and a loose, crumbly growing environment. It also provides food for the soil food web and supports biological activity around plant roots.

How is it different from earthworm castings?

Both are natural soil amendments, but they have different characteristics.
Worm castings are generally mild and commonly used in larger volumes. Mealworm frass is finer, more concentrated and naturally contains chitin, so it is typically applied in smaller amounts. They can also be used together.

What is chitin?

Chitin is a naturally occurring material found in mealworm exoskeletons. When added to soil, it can support biological activity and may help encourage plants’ natural defence processes as part of a healthy soil ecosystem.

How does it compare to chicken manure?

Mealworm frass is dry, low-odour and ready to apply in small quantities. Chicken manure is generally bulkier, has a stronger smell and may require composting or ageing before use (may burn roots).
Both can support soil health when prepared and applied appropriately.

Which product is right for me?

Choose the Small Garden Pouch (110g) for pot plants, herbs, balcony gardens and first-time use.
Choose the Large Garden Pouch (360g) for larger pots, veggie patches, raised beds and regular garden use.
Choose the Plant Feed Sachet Box (12 × 10g) for convenient, pre-measured feeding. Coming soon!
Explore all products →

How do I use it on my plants?

Sprinkle Rich Roots around the base of your plant, lightly mix it into the top layer of soil and water it in well.
As a simple guide, use 1–2 teaspoons for small pots, approximately 1 tablespoon for medium pots, and 1–2 tablespoons for large pots. For garden beds, sprinkle lightly around the root zone. For new planting, mix a small amount through the planting area.

How often should I apply it?

For established plants, apply approximately every 2 to 4 weeks during active growth. Use a smaller amount around seedlings, young plants and sensitive varieties.
Visit our Grower Notes and Blog for more practical tips and advice on getting the best results from every application.

Can I use it on indoor plants?

Yes. Its dry texture and low odour make it well suited to indoor pots, herbs, hanging baskets and balcony gardens.

Can I use it on edible plants?

Yes. Rich Roots can be applied to herbs, vegetables and fruiting plants when used as directed. Apply it to the soil rather than directly onto edible plant parts, and wash produce before eating.

Can I use it on seedlings?

Yes, but use a lighter amount. Mix a small quantity through the surrounding soil, avoid direct contact with delicate stems and water gently.

Can I use it with other fertilisers?

Yes, but avoid overfeeding. Because mealworm frass already contains naturally occurring nutrients, consider reducing the amount or frequency of other fertilisers you use.

How many plants will one pouch feed?

Coverage varies by pot size, plant needs and application rate.
As a rough guide, based on feeding every two weeks for approximately 12 weeks, a 110g pouch will feed around 3–5 small pots (10–15cm), 1–2 medium pots (20–25cm) or approximately 1 large pot (30cm+). A 360g pouch will feed around 12–15 small pots, 3–5 medium pots or 2–3 large pots for around 12 weeks.
These are general estimates only. Applying smaller amounts or feeding every four weeks will make each pouch last longer.

Is it safe around children, pets and edible plants?

Yes, it is! Rich Roots is made from 100% natural mealworm frass and contains no added synthetic fertilisers, so it’s safe around curious kids and furry friends, and anything you plan to eat.
Apply it to the soil as directed and wash herbs, fruit and vegetables before eating.

What’s the shelf life?

For best quality, use Rich Roots within approximately 12–18 months of purchase.
Correct storage helps keep the product dry, fresh and easy to apply.

How should I store it?

Keep the pouch sealed in a cool, dry place away from excess moisture and direct sunlight.

Is your packaging recyclable?

Yep! Our packaging is made from materials that are recyclable or compostable, depending on the product.
Please follow the disposal instructions on each package and check local recycling or composting requirements, as available services and accepted materials may vary by location.

Do you offer refills or bulk quantities?

Yep! Contact us to discuss larger orders, refills or quantities for community gardens, landscaping, horticulture and other growing projects.

Do you offer wholesale or stockist accounts?

Yes. We love working with nurseries, garden centres, gift stores, community organisations and other retailers.
Apply to become a stockist →

Shipping, Delivery & Returns

How quickly will my order be dispacted?

Orders are generally dispatched from our Queensland location within 2-3 business days.

You will receive tracking information once your order has been sent, where tracking is available.

How much is shipping?

At checkout, you can choose from the available delivery options for your order.

Our standard flat rate satchels are:

  • 0–2kg: $10
  • 2–4kg: $20
  • 4–6kg: $30

Where available, you may also select a live Sendle rate calculated according to parcel weight and delivery location.

Do you offer free shipping?

Yes. Free standard shipping is available on eligible orders valued at $99 or more.

The threshold is calculated using the final order value after discounts.

What happens if my order arrives damaged?

Please contact us within 14 days and include your order number and photographs of the product and packaging.

We will review the issue and arrange an appropriate replacement, credit or refund.

Can I return an opened pouch?

Because Rich Roots fertilisers are natural products, we generally cannot accept change-of-mind returns for opened packages.

This does not limit your rights under the Australian Consumer Law. Where a product has a major failure or does not meet a consumer guarantee, you may be entitled to a refund, replacement or another remedy.

Still have questions?

Connect with us via the “Contact Us” button below or DM us on Instagram @richrootsfertilisers.