Small worms or the absence of worms means you need to improve the soil. For homeowners who are still using synthetic fertilizers, the first step is simple. Stop spraying and broadcasting synthetic fertilizers. Beneficial earthworms and microscopic animals are repelled or killed by synthetics. The loss of these busy creatures is detrimental to the soil.
Poor soil produces poor plants.
The earthworms aerate the soil, bringing minerals from a depth of 6 feet to the top level of soil, where plant roots can absorb the nutrients. The worms and microscopic insects also leave behind nutrient-rich waste material. The next simple step is to use organic fertilizers and solutions. Organic products add nutrients that Mother Nature intended to be in our soil. Within a few months of quitting the synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, you will notice results.