Question
Hello

My uncle called tonight regarding his neighbours patio and his lawm garden next door. His neighbour complains of spring worms on her patio. I am a qualified Biologist but have not practiced for some years so I could only suggest a short-term measure of salt around the perimeter of her patio. It is spring and my uncles soil is mid pH so the worms will be having a good time, but since we have alot of rain here in the UK could you recommend a less rain-fail attempt? I know worms are blind but may they also be attracted to the heat of solar lamps that are in place?

Any advice would be gratefully received.

Thank you.

Answer
Hi Lucinda, Often they are driven to the surface because of excessive rainfall. Salt may damage surrounding plants so I'd spray a mild solution of dishwasher detergent around the perimeter of the patio about 3' wide.  It will not hurt your plants but it coats the worm so it cannot breath.  It will immediately bring them to the surface, so they'll need to be collected and disposed of.  Then spray once a month or so and they should not return.
They are a nuisance, but really beneficial to your soil. When it happens at my house, I just wash them off with the water hose.  Jim