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Jumping Worms #868708

Asked May 16, 2024, 12:30 PM EDT

I discovered Jumping Worms in my vegetable garden boxes last year. Is there anything I can do this year to eradicate them?

Orange County Vermont

Expert Response

Hello Anne, 

Thanks for reaching out to UVM Extension Master Gardener Helpline.

Sorry to hear you've discovered these pesky invaders in your garden. Unfortunately, there are no proven, researched-based tools for controlling jumping worms. There are no pesticides approved for worm control in yards and gardens. Researchers are looking into options, but there are no recommended control measures at this time beyond hand removal (mechanical controls) and disposal in the trash. 

I've linked a few other resources below to better understand jumping worms, their impact and how home gardeners might cope with their presence – both physically and emotionally.

 If you have other questions, don't hesitate to reach out. 

Resources: 

https://www.uvm.edu/news/extension/invasion-jumping-worms

https://extension.umn.edu/identify-invasive-species/jumping-worms#controlling-jumping-worms-1883163

https://extension.psu.edu/adapting-to-invasive-jumping-worms

Alex B., UVM Extension Master Gardener Volunteer Replied May 17, 2024, 9:34 AM EDT
Hello Anne:

Alex has provided you with some great resources on jumping worm management, etc.  I also wanted to provide you with the following new factsheet that was recently published by UVM researchers - https://www.uvm.edu/sites/default/files/Extension-Community-Horticulture/Resources/JWBMPfactsheet.pdf  
An Ask Extension Expert Replied May 17, 2024, 10:34 AM EDT

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