Knowledgebase

Worms for vegetable garden #866206

Asked April 28, 2024, 7:56 PM EDT

I have a vegetable garden in Jackson (Jackson County) and would like to release live worms into it to help improve the soil. My problem is that I am not sure which type would be best (and not invasive). Sadly, it seems that most of the articles that I have read on the subject, tend to promote whichever type of worm that the have for sale. With that said, could you tell me a (couple) specific type of worm(s) that would be appropriate for a vegetable garden, and maybe a reputable source for them. Note that I am not looking to compost, just enrich the soil that the vegetables and herbs are growing in. Thank you, in advance.

Jackson County Michigan

Expert Response

Hi, thanks for the question.

Worms are not recommended for introduction into gardens due to the potential ecological harm they can cause. Bringing in non-native earthworms to ecosystems where they were not previously found can alter the soil structure, nutrient cycles, and plant communities. It’s best to allow earthworms to populate your garden naturally if the conditions are suitable. Healthy soil is the best attractant for earth worm.  Depending on your soil type you may not even see earthworms.  Attract them to your garden with organic matter, reduced tillage, and mulching.  Two species currently not considered directly harmful are Eisenia fetida and Eisenia andrei  but their presence should be monitored to ensure they do not disrupt local ecosystems in Michigan. Check out these links:

 Should I put earthworms in my garden? | Extension (unh.edu)

Earthworms (psu.edu)

I hope this is helpful.

An Ask Extension Expert Replied April 29, 2024, 10:30 AM EDT
Thank you for such a a quick reply.
I am aware that introducing the wrong type of earthworms, or any other organism, can have a negative impact on the ecosystem. As a scuba diver, I have seen, first hand, the impact that Zebra mussels have had on local lakes. 
Regrettably, I am not knowledgeable enough to know which worms would be harmful and which ones would (possibly) be beneficial to my garden and that is the reason that I asked.
Once again, thank you for your time and consideration.



On Mon, Apr 29, 2024, 10:30 Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:
The Question Asker Replied April 29, 2024, 11:00 AM EDT

Hi again,

Since there are no earthworms native to Michigan, the two species mentioned are the least likely to cause problems.

An Ask Extension Expert Replied April 29, 2024, 11:11 AM EDT

Loading ...