Gardening Answers

Got Jumping Worms?

Chloe_Moderator | Posted in Northeast Gardening on

Jumping worm populations seem to have exploded this year with all the rain. I definitely notice my mulch and old leaves have been disappearing faster. Last year, I regretted not trying to flush them out of my houseplants before bringing them inside. They disturbed roots and turned soil practically to dust. I’m thinking of trying a mustard drench to bring them to the surface so I can pick them out, and I figure I may have to do it again later if I’m bringing in eggs, too. Has anyone tried the mustard method? Do you have jumping worms in your yard? Have they been causing problems?

https://warren.cce.cornell.edu/home-page/gardening-landscape/jumping-worm#:~:text=Check%20Potted%20Plants!&text=Mix%20a%20gallon%20of%20water,gently%20remove%20the%20root%20ball.

Replies

  1. User avater Moderator
    mdwyer | | #1

    We've had jumping worms in our area (S. WI, USA) for at least 8+ years now. UW-Madison has been doing some research on treatments but nothing overly conclusive yet. They do have some great references and links though... https://hort.extension.wisc.edu/articles/jumping-worms/

  2. User avater Moderator
    DrPulte_Moderator | | #2

    I’m so glad I don’t have these in my garden!

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