Earthworms and there piles.

Posted by Jim on December 8, 2012

Over the years we have got a lot of questions regarding mysterious little piles of earth sitting on Bermuda and Zoysia lawns.  They are also in Fescue lawns but since the grass is cut much higher you can't see them. Many customers associate these piles with other damaging insects.  Some homeowners have problems with the mounds because they are unsightly.  

The Earthworms are not really pests but beneficial.  As they borrow they swallow earth and extract the microorganisms and partially decomposed organic matter. When the ground becomes softened by watering or rainfall the worms come to the surface. They will leave these piles or castings as they are call on the surface.  The castings are just the worms fecal matter.  It is actually good for the grass because it is rich in nutrients.

Unfortunately there is nothing that we can do to get rid of earthworms.  The piles can be raked to disperse them if you want or your lawnmower might cut them up with your grass.

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