I attended the Serenity Garden’s May spruce up event. Weeding turned out to be interesting because I soon came across a worm snake. By the time I was done weeding for the day, I counted 9 worm snakes, so I took a moment for some research. Turns out Western Worm Snakes are native to Oregon, are harmless, and are not considered an invasive species. They feed primarily on earthworms (hence the name?) but may also eat other elongate invertebrates.
??? SORRY, NO REAL SNAKE PICTURE INCLUDED IN THIS POST
Why? I noticed that almost no one wanted to come near me when I was offering to show the worm snake photos on my phone.
Weird humor
Next, I went to our OCU Extension Site and found information about a confusingly named species, the invasive Jumping Worm, AKA snake worm (not worm snake). This worm is considered very invasive in Oregon! The following link will tell you everything you need to know about jumping worms: why they are bad for your garden; how to tell the difference between jumping worms, earthworms and red wigglers; and what gardeners can do to prevent the spread of invasive species like jumping worm. Learn more at the Oregon State University Extension Service
If you have a horticulture question that I can look into for our next Garden Club newsletter,
please send me a note below
Stay Calm & Garden on
Christine Pritts
