The jumping worms live in the leaf litter level of the ground, which is good as you can see them easily. They can also move to the topsoil level, and this is where you will find them in your soil profile.

There are three species of jumping worms, the 3 inch called tokioensis, then the intermediate amynthas agretis which are around 5 inches, and then there are the Metafire Hilgendorfi that are between 8 to 12 inches. All living in the same profile of the soil. Jumping worms and other worms are changing the soil layers of the forest. Jumping worms churn the soil and mix it at a high rate, reducing the spongy organic layer and compacting the soil. However, the native trees and herbaceous plants need the spongy soil for survival because it is full of nutrients which help them grow. This is similar to the way we use compost in the garden. The result of jumping worms changing the soil profile allows species like invasive garlic mustard, into our landscapes. Therefore, native plants, are prevented from existing in the landscape.Jumping worms have an annual life cycle but their cocoon do survive the winter. Cocoons hatch when temperatures of the soil reaching 10C or 50F. They continue to hatch throughout the summer and grow in 70 days to become a full adult worm. Mature adult jumping worms will be visible between July and October timeframe, so this is the time to investigate to see if you have an infestation of Jumping worms.

In the spring, if you find adult worms they are likely not jumping worms. Jumping worms are rigid and they are darker dorsally than ventrally. Mature jumping worms have a light white/gray smooth band called the clitellum near the head. It looks like a solid ring and goes all around the worm. It is found 14 to 16 segments from the head. Other worms, have a saddle-shaped clitellum which is red/pink. The clitellum is where the cocoons are produced, which are about 2 millimetre in size and are almost impossible to see in the soil. When you have a look at your soil check for worm castings. If the castings are uniform and look like coffee ground there may be jumping worms present. Other earthworms make little piles of casting randomly. Jumping worms’ behaviour is different from other earthworms in that their rigid body allows them to move more like very energetic snakes. They can drop off segments of their tails if aggravated. Other earthworms do not exhibit this behavior.

Invasive jumping worms come from the movement of plants worldwide. Jumping worms can be found in gardens, lawns, and forests. Far and wide distribution on shoes, vehicle tires, in soil and mulch from landscaping companies, through sharing of plants and plant sales, and fisherman dumping worms in lakes are also sources of infestation.

Better to not share plants from home gardens, if you suspect jumping worm infestation. Companies and garden clubs that are well versed in jumping worms will take precautions to avoid spreading them.

What can gardeners do about it?

1. Educate yourself, and watch for jumping worms in your soil - look for the signs.

2. Educate others on Jumping worms to look for the signs.

3. Only use, sell and take plants that are from sources free of jumping worms. like garden clubs, nurseries, or landscaping companies that are versed on jumping worms.

4. Only purchase compost from providers who heat the compost to the standard 131 F or 55 C which will render any jumping worms cocoon non-viable, and theoretically eliminate all worm population not just jumping worms.

5. Arrive clean and leave clean - shoes, tools, vehicles etc…

For more detailed information, visit the Master Gardeners of Ontario website resource page.