Jumping Worms

Here are the most recent fact sheets on jumping worms prepared by UMass Extension: https://ag.umass.edu/landscape/fact-sheets/invasive-jumping-worm-frequently-asked-questions (Please review this fact sheet for a quick overview of current findings.)

https://ag.umass.edu/landscape/fact-sheets/jumpingcrazysnake-worms-amynthas-spp

https://ag.umass.edu/landscape/fact-sheets/earthworms-in-massachusetts-history-concerns-benefits

A Summary of the Information Shared at UMass Extension’s Jumping Worm Conference in January 2022

  • There are currently no chemical control methods for invasive jumping worms.
  • Physical removal methods:
    • Hand-pick worms, seal them in a trash bag and discard the bag in your trash.
    • Worms also can be killed by putting them into a container with vinegar or rubbing alcohol.
    • Spread bulk mulch/compost/soil on a driveway to expose worms to predators and hand-picking. This will not kill any cocoons that are present.
    • Solarization: Jumping worm adults and cocoons will not survive over 105F. One method to kill them is to make a “solarization package.” Lay down a sheet of clear plastic (e.g., painter’s drop cloth) in a sunny area, 10-15 feet in length, place compost, mulch, or soil on top of the plastic, no deeper than 6-8 inches, and then wrap the plastic over top and around to encase the material completely in a plastic package. On a sunny summer day, research has shown a solarization package can heat to over 150F. (Görres, University of Vermont). However, the temperature will vary by time of year and local conditions. Research on the amount of time it takes to kill cocoons has varied and may take up to three days.
    • Solarization of garden soil is more difficult because the killing temperature of 105F cannot be maintained. Worms under the plastic will move to a different location. (https://extension.umd.edu/resource/invasive-jumping-worms). You will also find research resources at the end of this fact sheet. “Research is currently being conducted on invasive worms at the University of Wisconsin, the University of Minnesota, and Cornell University. Several practices do show some promise of control. (https://extension.psu.edu/look-out-for-jumping-earthworms)

Don’t panic. Follow best management practices:

  • Educate yourself and others about jumping worms;
  • Watch for jumping worms and signs of their presence;
  • ARRIVE CLEAN, LEAVE CLEAN. Clean soil and debris from vehicles, equipment and personal gear before moving to and from a work or recreational area;
  • Only use, sell, plant, purchase or trade landscape and gardening materials and plants that appear to be free of jumping worms; and only sell, purchase or trade compost that was heated to appropriate temperatures and duration following protocols that reduce pathogens. (https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/sites/default/files/topic/Invasives/jumpingwormfaq.pdf)