Question
Plant
I recently received an indoor potted plant as a gift. I can't identify the type of plant, but it's completely green and leafy and has grown to about 3 feet tall in a 2 gallon pot. It also receives full sunlight during the day and I water it about once every one and a half weeks, when I notice the top of the soil getting dry.
Last week, I watered the plant and noticed some movement in the soil. I took a closer look and saw very tiny (thin and no more than 1/4 inch long) brown worms moving in and around the holes of the soil. There were at least a dozen or so, barely noticeable until I actually focused on them. I've only noticed them appear when I water the plant.
Are they harmful to the plant and is there any way I can get rid of them? The plant looks green and healthy, and I've even seen a few new leaves. The sight of all those tiny worms crawling around just grossed me out and surprised me.
Thank you for taking the time to read my question, I've attached a photo of what closely resembles the plant I have.
Marina
AnswerHi Marina,
Your plant is a White Bird of Paradise.
The critters in the soil will not harm the plant, but I am sure you would rather not have them in your home. The best and safest treatment is to set the plant in a tub of plain water that comes up at least halfway to the pot rim. Leave it for about an hour. The flooding of the soil will cause the critters to float to the top in search of air. Scoop them off and discard them.
Do NOT repot or replace the existing soil because that would be traumatic to the plant. Do keep your plant as close to a sunny window as possible and continue to water as your described. It looks like your plant is well cared for.
Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions.
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Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC
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