How to Get Rid of Worms in Geranium Plant

Introduction

Geraniums are beautiful flowering plants known for their vibrant colors and fragrant blooms. However, they are not immune to pests and diseases, including worms. Worms can be a nuisance to geraniums as they eat away at the leaves and cause damage to the plant. If you have noticed worm infestation on your geranium plant, it is important to act quickly to prevent further damage. In this article, we will discuss how to get rid of worms in your geranium plant.

Identify the Worms

The first step in getting rid of worms in your geranium plant is to identify the type of worm that is causing the infestation. There are several types of worms that can affect geraniums, including cutworms, cabbage loopers, and armyworms. Each type of worm has a unique appearance and behavior pattern, so it’s important to identify them correctly before taking any action.

• Cutworms: These are brown, gray or black caterpillars that curl up into a C-shape when disturbed. They typically feed on the stems of young plants.

• Cabbage Loopers: These are light green caterpillars with white stripes on their backs. They move by looping their bodies and feed on the leaves of plants.

• Armyworms: These are green or brown caterpillars that feed on the foliage of plants. They are active at night and can quickly strip a plant of its leaves.

Natural Remedies for Getting Rid of Worms

There are several natural remedies that you can use to get rid of worms in your geranium plant.

Handpicking

One effective way to remove worms from your geranium plant is by handpicking them off the plant. Wear gloves and carefully search for worms on the underside of leaves or in the soil around the base of the plant. Drop them into a container of soapy water to kill them.

Neem Oil

Neem oil is a natural pesticide that can be used to get rid of worms in your geranium plant. It works by disrupting the feeding and reproductive habits of the worms, eventually killing them. Mix 1 tablespoon of neem oil with 1 quart of water and spray it on the affected areas of your plant.

Diatomaceous Earth

Diatomaceous earth is a powdery substance made from the fossilized remains of diatoms. It is a natural insecticide that can be used to get rid of worms in your geranium plant. Sprinkle diatomaceous earth around the base of your plant and on the leaves. The sharp edges of the powder will cut through the protective coating on the bodies of the worms, causing them to dehydrate and die.

Chemical Pesticides for Getting Rid of Worms

If natural remedies do not work, you may need to resort to chemical pesticides to get rid of worms in your geranium plant. However, it’s important to use them carefully and follow the instructions on the label.

Bacillus Thuringiensis

Bacillus thuringiensis (BT) is a natural bacterium that is found in soil. It produces proteins that are toxic to certain types of worms but harmless to humans and animals. Mix 1 tablespoon of BT powder with 1 quart of water and spray it on the affected areas of your plant.

Pyrethrin

Pyrethrin is a natural insecticide that is derived from chrysanthemum flowers. It works by paralyzing the nervous system of insects, including worms. Mix 1 tablespoon of pyrethrin powder with 1 quart of water and spray it on the affected areas of your plant.

Prevention Tips

Prevention is always better than cure when it comes to pests and diseases. Here are some tips to prevent worm infestations in your geranium plant.

• Keep your plant healthy by providing proper sunlight, watering, and fertilization.
• Remove any dead or damaged leaves from the plant as soon as possible.
• Inspect new plants before bringing them indoors to ensure they are free of pests.
• Use companion planting techniques to deter worms. For example, planting marigolds or garlic around your geraniums can help repel worms.

FAQ

How do I know if my geranium has worms?

You may notice holes in the leaves of your geranium, or the leaves may have been chewed on. You may also see small worms or caterpillars on the underside of the leaves or in the soil around the base of the plant.

How do I prevent worms from coming back?

Regularly inspecting your plants, removing dead or damaged leaves, and keeping your plant healthy are all ways to prevent worm infestations from reoccurring. You can also use companion planting techniques to deter worms.

Are natural remedies safe for my pets?

Most natural remedies are safe for pets, but it’s important to check the label before using them. Diatomaceous earth and neem oil are generally safe, but pyrethrin can be toxic to cats if ingested. Always keep chemicals and pesticides out of reach of your pets.