With Autumn fast approaching, you may expect your plants and landscaping to be in the full extent of its beauty. However, some of you may have noticed that the soil in your garden may look like coffee grounds or even hamburger meat! One reason that could be causing this is invasive Asian Jumping Worms. These invasive worms look similar to the earthworms you may normally encounter in your garden. However, they have a clitellum that is 1/3 the way down from the head and when they are disturbed they may wiggle or “jump.”

Jumping worms contribute to major forest ecosystem disturbance and are also troublesome for homeowners and gardeners. They negatively impact soil structure and reduce plant growth

Be on the lookout for jumping worms in soil, potted landscape plants, mulch or compost. If you see soil that looks like coffee grounds or notice unusually jumpy worms in your mulch:

• Don’t move any material that might be harboring jumping worms.
• Report any suspected jumping worms.
• Jumping worms, as with all worms, should be disposed of in the garbage. Do not release them into the environment.

…Learn more about Asian Jumping Worms here.