The Earthworm

Grow It! : Episode GRW-408 -- More Projects »
Although these crawlers of the underworld are often ignored, they provide many benefits to the gardener. Worms help decompose organic matter, creating a natural fertilizer for developing plants; they concentrate the soil's nutrients seven times over. By digging tunnels up to seven feet deep, they also provide a means for air to enter the soil. Earthworms also help wick excess water away from plants during heavy rains.