Annelida taxon

Description:

Earthworms are invertebrates from the taxonomic group Annelida. Earthworms live within the soil beneath the turf surface feeding on organic matter. Earthworms range in size from 5 to 25 cm and their numbers vary in soils from 30 to 300 per m2. The tunnelling and worm castings due to work activity are important in maintaining soil structure (Pattison, 2006). However, not when the castings are left on top of the turf surface.

Damage:

Earthworms do not damage the turfgrass foliage or roots, but the surface itself from earthworm castings. The castings provide an unaesthetic and more importantly disturbed turf surface. Such disturbance is problematic for lawn sports such as golf and bowls in particular. Castings are more prolific in cooler, wet conditions, where the soil has a higher silt and clay content and air within the rootzone is low. When castings are mown with a cylinder mower, the castings, which contain silt and clay, can dull your cutting edge.

Control options:

• Pesticides: See available tabs below for registered products. Use as per label instructions.
• Integrated Pest Management (IPM): Use a combination of approaches listed on this page.
• Cultural: 
  • Reduce soil moisture content and irrigation.
  • Lower soil pH, where possible, as earthworms are sensitive to acidic soil conditions.
  • Use a penetrant (wetting agent) which helps water penetrate into the rootzone quicker. 
• Mechanical: Very important - Undertake routine aeration practices using solid or hollow tines. Aeration will also help improve your soils water infiltration. Aeration holes can also be filled with sand, which is more practical to do following hollow tine aeration during a spring or summer renovation.

Disclaimer:

Turf Finder or its developer accepts with no responsibility for any consequences whatsoever resulting from the use of any information or product(s) listed herein. Products are to be applied as per label instructions.