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Palm & Dracaena Worms = Fungus Gnat Larvae: Overwatering Fix

Brown worms in soil + palm frond loss + Dracaena tip burn = fungus gnat larvae from overwatering/standing water.

Cause & Effect

  • Wet soil → root rot → fungus gnats lay eggs → larvae (worms) eat rotting roots.
  • Root rot → palm frond death, Dracaena tip burn.

Fix

  1. Dry out: Water only when soil dry 1–2″ down.
  2. No standing water in saucers (>few hrs).
  3. Bright light for palm (speeds recovery).
  4. Optional: One watering with rubbing alcohol kills larvae, safe for plant.

Roots heal → gnats/larvae vanish → new growth healthy.

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