Hello list, I was having a discussion whether having earthworms in plant containers is actually beneficial or not? The idea was that earthworms will improve soil aeration. But Google search shows that there are many people who totally against having earthworms in plant pots. Unfortunately, I could not find a scientific study on the effect of having earthworms in pots. They certainly are beneficial for soil but what about plant containers/ pots? Thanks, Farooq
I'm guessing they would be detrimental overall. Their underground activities in the confined area of a container would cause harm in the form of root disturbance. Having said that I've had the odd worm, small ones, in my containers and they have not had a negative impact on the plants. The size of the container and the number of worms involved must be considered.
Bad, but not terribly so. They speed up the breakdown of soil into smaller particles, which means that ultimately they reduce soil aeration. (Counterintuitive, I know.) On the other hand, like Junglekeeper, I've had earthworms in some of my pots (generally anything that spends any time outdoors is going to get them sooner or later, especially if the drainage holes are in contact with the soil) and nothing huge has happened. I just have to keep in mind that those plants will need soil replacement sooner than those without earthworms.
