In mid-August a dreaded Jumping Worm (Amynthas) was found in the Depot Garden in Wayzata by a member of the gardening crew caring for the garden. There are no earthworms native to North America, all were brought here for other countries.

Their most distinguishing characteristic is the band around the worm’s body called the clitellum. It is located 1/3 the length down the worm from the head, and it is smooth, cloudy-white and circles the body of the worm in its entirity, unlike the swelled saddle-like clitellum of European earthworms.

These pests can cause damage to your perennial beds as well as to your lawn. They are unwanted, uninvited guests in your yard. Their eggs can be transported in soil, mulch, and yard waste.

Here are some helpful resources for more information: