Flatworms – NZ or Ozzie

[whazzatParticipant]

Soon after taking on my present allotment about 3 years ago, I found flatworms – showed them to the Allotment Secretary, who had never seen one before. However, since then, I believe many others have found them. I am concerned about the lack of earthworms on my plot. There are very few, mainly near a grass path. A couple of days ago I killed 29 flatworms hidden under a carpet path (yes, probably not a good idea as it shelters slugs). Some were less than a centimetre.

I have been told that violet (and maybe other kinds of) beetles will eat them and I wonder how to encourage these creatures. Tips, anyone?

The structure of the soil is not great – tends to dry out very quickly and is powdery. Worms would help, I’m sure….as would compost, but I have a job making enough.

Any other ways to deter/exterminate/control flatworms would be appreciated.

[charlesModerator]

I do not have experience of this problem, thank goodness, but did hear someone say that by persistent trapping eg wooden boards, they had almost eradicated them. However on an allotment site I guess the flatworms would recolonise from neighbouring plots, so it’s difficult.
Any other views welcome!

[ruth nobleParticipant]

Whizzat, which type of flatworms do you have? I have moved to a new garden and found flatworms which terrified me. A bit of research showed that they are Australian flatworms which are seemingly fairly common around Dublin and aren’t as nasty as their NZ cousins. I regularly find them under my cardboard mulch but I do still have worms, thankfully. Does anyone have any solution other than trying to collect them?

[Don FoleyParticipant]

Hi Ruth,
I believe you are mistaken about the Australian Flatworm. They are as big a threat as the NZ variety to native earthworms.
Don.

[ruth nobleParticipant]

Agh, Don, I was hoping beyond hope. Anyone have a magic solution? I do still have ordinary earthworms, and tiger worms from the wormery are working away on my new beds and in the main compost bin as well, but obviously I need to keep on top of the nasties. Anyone got experience of them?
Ruth

[Don FoleyParticipant]

Hi Ruth,
Like Charles, I thankfully have not come across them personally.
From what I have read and been told the only way to deal with them is to catch and destroy them.
Don.

[JohnParticipant]

Hi Ruth

If I had this sort of problem I would give up the allotment and take up surfing 🙂

John

[ruth nobleParticipant]

Sure what could be more fun than midnight slug and flat worm hunting in the back garden? Maybe it’s time to get an allotment……

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