Small White Worms in Potting Soil: Source and Solutions

They Come with the Soil

Worms appearing at the soil surface when watering are likely fungus gnat larvae or other soil-dwelling organisms introduced with non-sterile potting mix.

Solutions

• Use sterile, soilless, peat-based mix for future repotting.
• Avoid unnecessary repotting—plants prefer being potbound.
• Non-chemical fix: Submerge pot to rim in water for 30 minutes; pests flee to surface. Drain and dry.

Systemic pesticides work but pose indoor hazards.