Question
Hello!  I have a broad leaf plant about two feet in height (I am sorry- I do do know the name) that we purchased in Florida and brought back to Minnesota in March.  Recently, I noticed that several of the leaves have large dark brown dry areas on them. My husband took the plant outside and sprayed it with Sevin.  A few days later, we found at least a dozen small caterpillar-looking worms that evidently came up through the soil and died.  The worms are light brown in color and are about one-half to one inch long in size.  Can you tell me what they are and what to do to rid the plant of them?  Also, will they do harm to our other house plants?  Thank you!

Answer
Hi Jo,

The brown spots on the leaves probably were not insects and the spraying with a potent pesticide may not have been necessary. Because pesticides are so toxic, it is best not to use them unless absolutely necessary. In addition, some pesticides are toxic to certain tropical plants.

To get rid of the worms - probably centipedes of some type - plunge the pot in a tub of water up to the rim of the pot. Leave it for about 30 minutes. This flooding of the soil will cause the worms to rise to the top in search of air. Then you can scoop them up and remove them.

The worms will not harm any of your plants, including the one they are now in. They are also unlikely to travel from one plant to another.

Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions. If you would like to e-mail me some photos, I may be able to provide some additional insights.

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Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

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