Rearing silkworms is an indoor project for several reasons. The temperature range necessary for the insect (average room temperature) is easily regulated within an indoor space. With no defense mechanisms, Bombyx mori is also protected from predators when reared inside. With good hygiene an important component of rearing, a clean rearing area is easy to accomplish in an indoor environment.

Mulberry (Morus) leaves are the food of Bombyx mori. Since mulberry plants are deciduous, start a rearing project in the spring or summer when an adequate supply of fresh leaves are available. Rearing silkworms on artificial diet formulas of leaf powder and protein are not recommended for most of the commercial silkworm strains currently available.

The most economical and simple way to rear silkworms is in a tray or shallow box. Immediately after hatching, provide larvae with clean, fresh leaves cut to dime-size pieces. As the larvae grow, provide larger pieces or full leaves. Feed the larvae a few times per day or as frequently as needed to keep leaves available for consumption.

About 27 days after hatching, silkworms begin spinning cocoons. Providing a support mechanism like an egg carton, partitioned box or crumpled paper facilitates efficient construction of the cocoons. Cocoon completion takes about 3 days.

Cocoons used for reeling must be baked in an oven to prevent moths from piercing their cocoons and breaking the continuous fiber. If left to develop naturally, the adult silk moth emerges from the cocoon about two weeks after completion. Soon after eclosion, moths mate and females lay eggs.