3 Reasons that Earthworms are Attacking your Driveway

Earthworms and Concrete

So, welcome to spring. And it seems like all the earthworms want to get on your driveway and sidewalk and die. You are obviously wondering why. Otherwise, you wouldn't be reading this. In order to get to the bottom of the problem, we need to learn a little about these little wonders.

Earthworms are a small segmented invertebrate that live in burrows under the surface of the soil. Seeing earthworms in your lawn is a sign that your soil is in good shape. It also means that there are plenty. Your lawn is not impacted and dry. Well draining soil is good for more than just the grass. Earthworms don't actually breathe. They absorb oxygen through their skin. The soil must be moist and loose in order for this to happen.

Reason one.  Earthworms like a balanced moisture level. During spring, the moisture level in the soil goes up and down. It will rain a good bit. This makes the soil too wet. So, they travel up to find an area that is more dry. This includes your driveway. Then, poof, the sun comes out. Things dry quickly. And they have gone too far to get back.

Reason two. These little guys have both male and female reproductive organs. But, they cannot fertilize their own eggs. So, they do mate. This happens above ground. There is a strong possibility that they think that your driveway is a big rock in the way of them finding a mate. Then, they get too far when they realize it's not a rock. 

Reason three. There is another reason that the crispy crawlers could be on your concrete. Most homeowners use herbicides on their lawns. These herbicides include, selective weed control, fungicides, fertilizers, and most importantly, insecticides. As these chemicals get absorbed into the soil, it stinks up their house. So, they try to find another house. Research your chemicals and choose wisely. Try to find chemicals with a lower environmental impact. When possible use an eco-friendly or organic product. No matter what chemical you use, make sure that you do your measurements. Read and follow the product directions.

Earthworms are a very important of you having a beautiful healthy lawn.  The little burrowed tunnels aerate the soil. This helps keep the soil loose and assists in drainage. They feed on dead organic matter. Thus, they create a super fertilizer already put in the right place.

But, don't beat yourself up. Earthworms have been around a long time. As long as you keep the moles out, the population will easily recover. They lay up to twenty eggs at a time. So, I would say their chances are pretty good. But, if you want to help, keep your soil moist. Aerate if the soil gets impacted. Most of all limit the use of insecticides to a "must need basis". Try to use garden safe chemicals.

Remember that your landscape is your sanctuary. Let it bring you peace and keep you grounded. Dream it, build it. And if I can help, let me know.

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