Hello Marsha, 

Thanks for reaching out to the EMG helpline! 

I have found this comprehensive FAQ from UMass to be helpful: https://ag.umass.edu/landscape/fact-sheets/invasive-jumping-worm-frequently-asked-questions

It explicitly states that tea seed meal is labeled for use as a lawn fertilizer only and is not legally approved for other use. It also states that there has not been any research on jumping worms avoiding plants that produce a large amount of saponins. 

In our latest jumping worm training, Dr. Gorres made it clear that they are here to stay but there are things we can do to stop the spread:

- Not all sources are contaminated, but buying from commercial composters can minimize contamination. Soils can be solarized or steamed. Here's a quick guide to help with identification as well as a checklist to help minimize the spread:  https://www.uvm.edu/sites/default/files/Extension-Community-Horticulture/Resources/JumpingWormHomeOwnerGuideUVMEMG.pdf

- Be mindful of plants purchased. You can wash plants to avoid bringing them to your property. Here are some helpful plant sale guidelines by Dr. Hazelrigg and Dr. Gorres:  https://www.uvm.edu/sites/default/files/Extension-Community-Horticulture/Guidelines_for_Plant_Sales_to_Avoid_Jumping_Worms.pdf

Please reach out if you have any other questions! 
 

Thanks for your response. You mentioned ways of avoiding the worms but I already have them. I am seeking to minimize their numbers.

My specific question was whether there was a tea tree saponin product now labeled for treatment for jumping worms. Dr. Gorres did show results of a study that showed tea tree saponins were effective in reducing their numbers. He also mentioned that a company in the midwest was developing a product containing tea tree saponins and he expected approval within a few months. Also, I would like to know if he has developed a method for microtizing millet with the fungi that has been found to treat the worms.

Appreciate your help.

Marsha

Hi Marsha, 

Nothing is available at this point. If it does become legal/registered, the extension office will certainly issue press releases and communicate to the EMGs. For now, the only ways to 'minimize the numbers' are included in the published resources. There is also some research on using mixed flower borders as a barrier, and information will be shared as soon as it's available.