A recent article about jumping worms in the Star Tribune by regular Northern Gardener contributor Gail Hudson has brought more attention to this new invasive pest and its affect on home gardeners. Here’s what we know so far, with links to additional sources of information. What are jumping worms? Jumping worms are members of the…

Compost is decomposed organic matter—food scraps, dried leaves, grass clippings, spent stems and leaves, pine needles and other garden material. It’s filled with microorganisms and fungi, and gardeners consider it “black gold.” You may buy it at a host of garden centers, but making your own can be a fun and rewarding experience. What is…

Spring is a good time to watch out for jumping worms (Amynthas sp.), the latest invasive pest to hit Minnesota. As gardeners are planting potted plants, adding compost and mulch to gardens and spending more time observing their yards, they are more likely to notice the writhing jumping worms and the tell-tale soil with a…