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Keep an eye out for invasive 'jumping worms' this spring

By Clayton Baumgarth

Posted March 24, 2023

Jumping worms, named after the dramatic writhing they do when disturbed, are thinner, smoother, and firmer than your typical earthworm. (Photo by Eric Hamilton, UW - Madison Communications)

Researchers and environmental advocates want Hoosier gardeners to watch for invasive “jumping worms” this spring.  

Jumping worms are an invasive species from Asia that are difficult to eliminate once they are established.  

Worms are usually good for gardens, doing things such as aerating soil and leaving high-nutrition waste called castings. 

But according to Ellen Jacquart, president of Monroe County Identify and Reduce Invasive Species, this species couldn’t be more different than a typical worm. 

“Jumping worms don't do any of that,” she said. “They stay near the surface, so they don't aerate. They have a really big mouth, and they just shovel in all of the compost, all the leaf litter, any organic matter. What comes out the other end is an earthworm casting that is very hard and dry.” 

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Jacquart said it’s hard to tell exactly how many worms are in the state, let alone the county, because of a history of underreporting. 

“Now that we've started talking about it and asking about it, people are saying, ‘oh, that's what this is in my garden,’” she said. “So this year we are really trying to get a better handle on Monroe County, particularly, where do we have jumping worms? And how widespread are they?” 

In the winter, jumping worms die, leaving tiny, millimeter-sized eggs behind. Human transport of soil and compost moves the species to markets, and eventually consumers’ gardens. 

“If you're buying a plant somewhere or composting mulch, ask, are you aware of jumping worms? What's your source of soil? Do you use sterile soil media or are you digging up soil and putting it in the pot,” she said. 

If jumping worms are found in a garden, mustard seeds and moist leaves may help repel and bait the worms. But Jacquart said there’s one thing infested gardeners must realize. 

“Once you know you have them, do not ever let any soil leave your location,” she said. “Don't give people potted up plants, don't share mulch, don't share compost, realize that those eggs are one millimeter, and it would be very easy to give those away to friends or other gardeners.” 

Jacquart said gardeners who find jumping worms in their soil are encouraged to report it at EDDMaps.org. 

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