How to Get Rid of Worms in Goldfish Plant

Goldfish plants are popular houseplants known for their attractive foliage and bright orange or yellow flowers that resemble a fish’s mouth. However, these plants are also prone to infestation by various pests, including worms. If you notice small white or brown worms wriggling around the soil or on the leaves of your goldfish plant, it’s time to take action.

In this article, we’ll discuss the common types of worms that infest goldfish plants and how to get rid of them using natural and chemical methods.

Types of Worms that Infest Goldfish Plants

1. Fungus Gnats: These small black flies lay their eggs in the soil of potted plants. The larvae hatch from the eggs and feed on the organic matter in the soil, including the roots of the plant. The larvae are thin and white with a black head and can grow up to 1/4 inch long.

2. Root Maggots: These are the larvae of a type of fly called the cabbage root fly. They feed on the roots of plants, causing stunted growth and yellowing leaves. The larvae are white and legless, growing up to 1/4 inch long.

3. Leaf Miners: These are small maggots that tunnel through the leaves of plants, leaving distinctive trails behind them. The tunnels can cause severe damage to the plant if left untreated.

Natural Methods for Getting Rid of Worms in Goldfish Plants

1. Sticky Traps: You can use yellow sticky traps placed near your goldfish plant to trap adult fungus gnats and other flying insects. This helps control the population of these pests and prevents them from laying eggs in the soil.

2. Neem Oil: Neem oil is an effective natural insecticide that can kill a variety of pests, including fungus gnats, root maggots, and leaf miners. Mix 1 tablespoon of neem oil with 1 quart of water and spray the solution on the leaves and soil of your goldfish plant. Repeat every 7-10 days until the infestation is under control.

3. Diatomaceous Earth: This is a natural powder made from crushed diatoms, which are fossilized algae. The powder is abrasive to the exoskeletons of insects, causing them to dehydrate and die. Sprinkle diatomaceous earth on the soil of your goldfish plant and around the base of the pot to kill larvae in the soil.

Chemical Methods for Getting Rid of Worms in Goldfish Plants

1. Insecticidal Soap: Insecticidal soap is a type of spray that contains potassium salts of fatty acids. It works by disrupting the cell membranes of insects, causing them to die. Use a spray bottle to apply insecticidal soap to the leaves and soil of your goldfish plant, following the manufacturer’s instructions.

2. Systemic Insecticides: These are chemical insecticides that are absorbed by the plant’s roots and circulate throughout the entire plant, killing any pests that feed on it. They come in granular or liquid form and can be applied to the soil or sprayed on the leaves.

FAQs

Can I use vinegar to get rid of worms in my goldfish plant?

No. Vinegar is not an effective method for controlling worms in goldfish plants.

How can I prevent worms from infesting my goldfish plant?

To prevent worms from infesting your goldfish plant, make sure to keep the soil moist but not wet, avoid over-fertilizing, and remove dead leaves or debris from around the base of the plant.

Is it safe to use chemical insecticides on my goldfish plant?

Yes, but be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and avoid getting the insecticide on your skin or in your eyes. Keep children and pets away from treated plants until the insecticide has dried.