How could damaging turf pests get any worse? Try crossing a Snake with an Earthworm, and you've got your answer. In this episode of Turf Tips, Dr. Brad showcases a fairly rare case of damage on a home lawn caused by the Jumping Worm. These wriggling turf pests are not native to the U.S., and are thought to be brought to residential lawns via bags of soil or mulch during landscaping projects (which is the case on this lawn). Unfortunately, there are no common treatments offered for active Jumping Worms as of yet due to how uncommon they are. However, some folks report success with a home remedy - by spreading a mix of ground Mustard seed and water on afflicted areas of the lawn, it has been found that the Jumping Worms will come to the surface. At this point, the pests can be removed by hand, one-by-one. Because of this process, this home remedy may not be feasible for larger lawns or more severe infestations. Jumping Worms can be identified by the white ring around their bodies, and more distinctively by the way in which the worm moves like a snake.
Home remedy recipe & info:
1 Gallon Water
1/3 Cup Ground Mustard Seed Powder
Mix & spread the Mustard Seed & water mixture over the afflicted area & the turf surrounding. Worms will typically surface fairly quickly. At this point, the Jumping Worms can be manually collected/extracted & disposed of. Recipe can be scaled up to yield more Mustard Seed & water mixture as needed.
Remember: the Mustard Seed water mixture is not a control method and will not eliminate the Jumping Worms - worms will have to be removed by hand. Because of this process, this home remedy may not be feasible on larger properties or on lawns with more severe infestations.
Jumping Worms are an invasive species and should not be relocated to other areas.
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22 июн 2024
