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Re: TH: About EarthWorms ...



This year we are trying various cover crops and mulching methods
to see what works and what does not.  One thing I have noticed
is that the worms have increased in some areas.  This is not a
very scientific test, just taking a sample of the soil with a
shovel.  But, it does indicate that worms like clover.  In areas
with clover I find worms everywhere.  Other areas with heavy
mulch also attract worms, but not as numerously.  Even the
area we are mulching with ant hills has attracted worms.

This might be an interesting strategy for planting trees.  Scatter
some clover seed around the tree at planting time to give the
tree some help with nitrogen and soil building.  The one caution
would be to look out for moles.   I don't know how the moles
find the worms, maybe that is the purpose of that big nose on
the front of the mole?

Changing subjects:  I have been reading about history and trees
and find the data very interesting.  Areas of the earth have
been deforested and other areas have increasing trees.  The
big factor seems to be man.  Surprisingly one of the big users
of trees was shipbuilding.  Another one was goats.  Today, the
problems have changed, and history doesn't provide any easy
answers.  But, it still seems to be the basic problem of looking
at trees as a consumable material and not as part of a sustainable
cycle.

Jeff