Garden Worms for Clay Soil

by Sharon
(Colorado)

My son just set up a worm bin using your tutorial. I came to look at ordering worms for the bin when I noticed your information on the garden worms for clay soil.

You mention that the Alabama Jumpers are good for your garden. I've got hard clay soil so I'd be interested to know how it works.

How do I get the worms to stay in my vegetable garden area... and not migrate to the surrounding lawn area. Or do I? That is possibly a very silly question... after all who can control a worm right?! But maybe there are things that can be done to encourage the worms to multiply right there where you put them.

How many worms would I need for how many square feet.

Thanks!

Sharon

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Jul 12, 2011
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Garden Worms for Clay Soil: Reply
by: Pauly

Great questions, and just so every one knows I am not an Alabama jumper expert but they are a redworm and my supplier brags about their ability to turn clay soil into a rich soil amendment. I cannot give you an exact worm to sq. ft. ratio. You may have to do a little research to find that answer or hopefully someone can chime in on this string.

The Jumpers will eat some clay as well as decaying matter so it is important that you throw in plenty of vegetation like grass clippings, hay, leaves, shredded paper, kitchen scraps etc... don't be concerned about them migrating anywhere. As long as you provide plenty of food for them the grass will always be greener on your side of the fence.

If you want them to survive throughout the winter then keep plenty of fresh fodder in big piles for them to eat and stay warm, It will not be guaranteed on how many will survive throughout the winter which it is always a good idea to keep some indoors.

Usually worms will double every three months if the right conditions are met. Refer to the manual.

Remember, The key is to keep plenty of decaying matter in the garden to feed your worms so they can mix the clay with the the vegetation and eventually turn the plot into something more useable for plants.

P.S. I would suggest laying the worm fodder about 4-6" thick and plenty moist. Do not let it dry out or your worms will find a better habitat. Keep your winter piles about waist high to insure proper insulation for winter

Good Luck Sharon!

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