Jumping Worms Fact Sheet
Invasive jumping worms disrupt soil structure and make it uninhabitable for many of our native plants. Learn what we’re doing to prevent the spread of jumping worms – and how you can help!
We have identified jumping worms on our farm. We believe they came in the soil of bought-in finished plants a few years ago, and have since established populations in pockets around our farm. There is currently no organic way of managing them. However, there are many ways to prevent their spread into your gardens and forested areas.
What is CCFEC doing to prevent the spread of jumping worms?
- Purchasing soil from a reputable supplier (Read Vermont Compost Company’s jumping worm statement here)
- Elevating our retail plants so that worms can’t enter pots through their drainage holesEducating our staff on what to look out for and what to do if they see something
- Thoroughly inspecting all bought-in plant material
- Regular scouting of retail plants for worms and castings
- Quarantining any suspected infected plants
- Washing the soil off the roots of infested plants and repotting with fresh soil
How can I protect my garden?
- If you see something, say something! Please let a staff member know if you think you have spotted jumping worms in any plants.
- If you’d like to purchase bare-root plants, let us know! We are happy to arrange to rinse the soil off of your plants.
- Jumping worms thrive in moist, shaded environments and die when they dry out. They are much less of a concern in consistently hot, sunny, well-drained sites.
How do I identify jumping worms?
Jumping worms have a few distinct characteristics:
- Smooth clitellum/band
- Sometimes iridescent sheen
- Snake-like thrashing and “jumping” when disturbed
- Leave behind particularly large, loose castings
We have two other common kinds of worms we find on our farm, and sometimes in the soil of potted plants: Red Wigglers/Composting Worms and Nightcrawlers/Common Earthworms.
Lumbricus terrestris/Common Earth Worms have a raised clitellum and a distinct bristled flattened end opposite of the clitellum. Eisenia fetida/Red Wigglers (Composting Worms) are smaller, no more than 1.5 inches long. One of their ends is usually lighter in color; it can be yellow-ish or light orange.
How can I learn more?
If you’re interested to learn more or concerned about jumping worms, we recommend the resources linked below.