Threadlike Worms in Ficus Drip Pan: Fungus Gnat Larvae—Kill with Alcohol, Prevent by Drying Soil

Identification

The 1.5-inch, headless, wiggling "threads" are almost certainly fungus gnat larvae—common in overwatered plants.

Immediate Treatment

• Mix 50/50 rubbing alcohol and water; water the plant with this solution next watering.
• Pour straight rubbing alcohol into the drip pan to kill larvae on contact (alcohol evaporates quickly).

Long-Term Prevention

• Insert a bamboo skewer into the soil; water only when the lower 2/3 of the skewer is dry.
• Always empty drip trays 1 hour after watering (use a turkey baster for heavy pots).
• Dry periods between waterings prevent root rot and interrupt the gnat life cycle.