How Earthworms Serve in the Soil

Movement

• Earthworms are famous for tunneling through the ground, thereby providing natural aeration. This movement creates passages through which water and air can travel through the soil to nourish plants. Earthworm movement also helps to equally distribute beneficial minerals to plants and crops.

Eating the Soil

• Earthworms eat leftover nutrients found in the soil, which helps the earth get rid of decomposed matter. When their bodies produce waste, the excrement serves as renewed fertilizer.

Feeding the Soil

• Earthworm excrement contains several nutrients that help plants thrive. According to Cochise College, nitrogen is the most important byproduct. Materials like calcium, phosphorus and potassium are also present, according to Rutgers Cooperative Extension.