jumping worms: worm castings value - Ask Extension
if your garden soil has plenty of organic matter,so scarcity of OM isn't a problem, what is the harm of the jumping worm?I have read it eats plant ro...
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jumping worms: worm castings value #844342
Asked August 06, 2023, 9:06 AM EDT
if your garden soil has plenty of organic matter,so scarcity of OM isn't a problem, what is the harm of the jumping worm?I have read it eats plant roots. I am especially interested as to the nutritional value of the castings of these worms. I keep a spray bottle of alcohol to kill the worms but its is bothersome to do so. what is the argument for killing the worms in a garden. thanks
Caledonia County Vermont
Expert Response
Hello Charles,
I applaud you for your optimism. However, there is really no value in the castings. The worms will turn your soil into a coffee ground like consistency that will hold no organic matter. They are invasive in that they will convert organic matter uncontrolled at an alarming rate if left alone. I've attached a couple articles for you to digest and if you have further questions please do not hesitate to reconnect.
https://www.uvm.edu/sites/default/files/Extension-Community-Horticulture/JWORM_Homeowner_Guide_-_Jumping_Worms-Accessible_Version_2021-2.pdf
I applaud you for your optimism. However, there is really no value in the castings. The worms will turn your soil into a coffee ground like consistency that will hold no organic matter. They are invasive in that they will convert organic matter uncontrolled at an alarming rate if left alone. I've attached a couple articles for you to digest and if you have further questions please do not hesitate to reconnect.
https://www.uvm.edu/sites/default/files/Extension-Community-Horticulture/JWORM_Homeowner_Guide_-_Jumping_Worms-Accessible_Version_2021-2.pdf
thankyou for taking the time to reply to my question. In the attachment on pg 2 under "how do you know you have jumping worms" it refers to their castings as "nutrient rich" is that wrong? thanks Chas
me again, are there any studies addressing the jumping worm castings nutritional value that you can cite to me? Thanks Chas
thankyou for taking the time to reply to my question. In the attachment on pg 2 under "how do you know you have jumping worms" it refers to their castings as "nutrient rich" is that wrong? thanks Chas
Yes, it does indeed comment on the fact that nutrients are present from the castings, however, it also says that the nutrients are left on top of the soil where they are likely to wash away and not reach the plants because the soil structure has been compromised. I did look for studies from across the extension system for notes regarding nutrient value but none can be found. All the studies regarding Jumping worms focus on the downside and the long term effects along with warnings to stop their spread.
Ok, that's good enough for me. Thank you. Chas
