How to Get Rid of Inchworms in Potted Plants

Potted plants are a great way to bring nature indoors or add some greenery to any outdoor space. However, the joy of having plants can be quickly diminished when you discover inchworms crawling on your beloved plants. Inchworms, also known as loopers or cankerworms, are the larvae of moths and can cause damage to your plants by feeding on the leaves, stems, and buds. Here are some methods to get rid of inchworms and prevent them from coming back.

Identify the Inchworms

Before you start treating your plants, it’s important to positively identify the inchworms. Inchworms are usually green, brown, or gray in color and have a smooth or ridged body. They also have a distinctive looping movement when they crawl. Some common plants that inchworms are attracted to are tomatoes, peppers, lettuce, spinach, and herbs.

Manual Removal

One technique to get rid of inchworms is to manually remove them. Wear gloves and check your plants for inchworms and pick them off with your fingers. You can also use a soft brush or cloth to gently brush them off. Place the inchworms in a container of soapy water or cut them in half with scissors to prevent them from crawling back to the plants. Manual removal is best for small infestations.

Insecticidal Soap

Insecticidal soap is a natural and safe option to get rid of inchworms. It works by suffocating the inchworms and washing away their protective wax coating. Choose a soap specifically labeled for insect control and mix it with water according to the instructions. Spray the entire plant, including the undersides of leaves and stems, with the solution. Repeat the treatment every 7-10 days until the inchworms are eliminated.

Bacillus Thuringiensis

Bacillus thuringiensis, or Bt, is a natural and effective bacterial insecticide that targets caterpillars like inchworms. Bt works by targeting the gut of the inchworm, making it unable to feed and causing its death within a few days. Bt is available as a liquid or powder and should be applied to your plants and soil for it to be effective. Be sure to follow the instructions on the product label for correct application and frequency.

Neem Oil

Neem oil is an organic oil made from the seeds of the neem tree and has been used for centuries for pest control. It is effective in repelling and killing a wide range of pests, including inchworms. Mix neem oil with water and spray the plants thoroughly, including the undersides of leaves and stems. Neem oil has a residual effect and should be reapplied every 7-14 days to prevent future infestations.

Prevention

The best way to prevent inchworms from infesting your potted plants is to practice good plant hygiene. Keep your plants healthy and well-watered as healthy plants are more resistant to pests. Remove any dead leaves or debris that may attract inchworms. Monitor your plants regularly for signs of pests and take action immediately if necessary. You can also use a physical barrier like a row cover to prevent moths from laying eggs on your plants.

In conclusion, inchworms can be a nuisance to your potted plants, but there are plenty of natural and safe methods to get rid of them. Identifying the inchworms and choosing the appropriate treatment is key to effectively eliminating them. Practicing good plant hygiene and preventative measures can also reduce the chance of future infestations.