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Benefits of Earthworms
In commercial agriculture, as in the home garden, earthworms are
an important beneficial that can improve soils, save money and reduce
the threat of erosion. Consider the following:
- The constant tunneling or burrowing action of worms
allows the free passage of air into and out of the soil
(aeration).
- The constant tunneling or burrowing action of
worms breaks up the hard pan and plow sole created
by mechanical tillage.
- By consuming organic matter such as manure, leaves, grass
and decaying wood, worms contribute to the breakdown of these materials
at a much faster rate than would otherwise occur.
- The nutrient-rich burrows created by worms allow plant
roots to develop faster, producing stronger and healthier plants which
are not as susceptible to fungus, disease, or pests.
- The tunneling and burrowing action of worms allows rainfall
to enter the soil more easily, reducing the likelihood of water
erosion and puddling which kills young plants.
- The Lumbricus Terrestris,
and about 50 other species of worms with similar
habits, digs deep semi-permanent burrows which bring
mineral-rich subsoils to the surface in reach of plant roots.
- Large populations of worms will attract Robins and other
bird species which prey on the worms in early spring, but turn to
feeding on insect pests as they appear.
- Worms help homogenize minerals and organic materials
in the soil into a rich black humus. When worms ingest organic
materials they also have to take in small bits of grit (just as birds
do) to digest their food. This is expelled by the worm as a
nutrient-rich manure known as a "cast," which improves soil structure
and improves soil porosity.
- Where worms are present in good numbers, tillage of a field
is less necessary. Worms will provide much of the tillage needed in
many fields. Less tillage means moisture conservation, fuel savings,
and less equipment expenditures and repairs.
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Earthworms
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