Most species prefer a soil that is neutral or alkaline (high pH), they will not tolerate acidic soils (low pH).Ī soil that contains a high percentage of organic matter is likely to be high in worm numbers, as organic matter is their food source. The soil pH also has an influence on earthworm numbers.

This is the reason why worm-casts are troublesome from October to April, because the soil is generally wetter during the autumn and winter months. Clay is water retentive and doesn’t have the free draining properties of sand and worms favor moist conditions. Worm casts are more troublesome on heavier clay type soils rather than on light sandy soils. The worm population is heavily influenced by environmental factors such as soil texture, moisture content, pH levels, soil temperature, inorganic salts and organic matter levels. Of all the species of worms found in the UK, very few actually produce worm casts. However, worms produce casts which create numerous problems, including sticky, muddy conditions as well as damage to lawn mowers.

A high population of worms is an indication that the soil is healthy and ideal for growing healthy turf. The control of worms in the lawn is a controversial subject, as they are very beneficial to the soil. The only drawback with worms is that they produce casts

Download cut worms in lawn