Question
Hi, I have recently noticed little white/tan worms covering the top of the soil on one of my house plants. it is a type of palm and it is about six feet tall. I have read some of the other answers for this problem which say to plunge the plant with water up to its root line to flood the little worms, and while they are in search of air you can skim them off the top. I can't really do that with this plant. Can you tell me an alternate method for removing these worms? I also read that there is a spray but it can be harmful. Can you clarify that for me please? Thank you, Tina

Answer
Hi Tina,

It is unlikely that the worms will damage your palm. However, they do indicate that the grower did not use quality soil and take proper precautions in growing your plant. So you may other problems, as well.

If the worms are mostly on the surface, you can try scraping them off along with the loose soil and discarding them. You may need to be persistent in doing this several times until they completely disappear.

Another option would be to place moth balls on the surface of the soil and then try to cover the soil with plastic so the moth balls permeate the air around the worms. Do not apply any water while the moth balls are in place and don't leave the moth balls in place for more than a couple of days.

There are "systemic" pesticides available that are diluted in water and then pored into the soil. They are toxic and should not be used if there are small children or pets that might go into the soil.

Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions.

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Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

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