Hi GK, Your potato bait drew some interesting results. You may want to check the drainage holes at the bottoms of the plant pots for evidence of fungus gnat larvae (very small white worm-like larvae--somewhat translucent. That is where I have seen them. The yellowish worm at the top appears to be a mealworm (larval stage of the darkling beetle) or some similar beetle larva. You can search Mealworm life cycle on google image for comparison. The pinkish worm at the bottom appears to be a small earthworm--harmless good guygal. If it were my plant and could bear the depotting, I would prepare fresh, sterile media and a well cleaned or new pot, gently rinse off old media from the plant and repot it, letting it rest several days in indirect light before watering and at least a month before feeding. If that is not a good choice for this plant you can put the earthworm outdoors to fend for himherself (they are hermaphrodites, I believe), and go after the snail(s), larvae, and suspected fungus gnats in two steps. BT (Bacillus thuringiensis (SP??)) preparations are available at garden supply stores. They are biological organisms toxic to worm-like larvae, such as fungus gnats and probably mealworms as well (check package label). Garden supply stores also have snail remedies that are non-toxic to animals. Some are quite toxic to animals, so do check label warnings. Sweetcicely

"But the only effective way to get rid of them is systemic pesticide like Bayer Advanced "Fruit, Citrus and Vegetable Insect Control" Prairie This isn't judgement, this is pointing out that this statement is simply not true. This is a judgement - Shame on you. Aphids are one of the easiest pests to control, albeit annoying little buggers, but by no means a justification for stating Imidacloprid is the only effective measure to control - that's a flat out lie. I know this isn't an organic forum and I realize that one plant is a drop in the bucket compared to the fields and nurseries covered in it, but the more people you inform on better alternatives to harsh chemical means - especially the new comers - then fewer people waste money on and spread these problem compounds around. More information than you probably wanted or ever thought about on the effect of different exposure levels to the primary active ingredient in your so called aphid panacea. "Imidacloprid and its nitrosoimine metabolite (WAK 3839) have been well studied in rats, mice and dogs. In mammals, the primary effects following acute high-dose oral exposure to imidacloprid are mortality, transient cholinergic effects (dizziness, apathy, locomotor effects, labored breathing) and transient growth retardation. Exposure to high doses may be associated with degenerative changes in the testes, thymus, bone marrow and pancreas. Cardiovascular and hematological effects have also been observed at higher doses. The primary effects of longer term, lower-dose exposure to imidacloprid are on the liver, thyroid, and body weight (reduction). Low- to mid-dose oral exposures have been associated with reproductive toxicity, developmental retardation and neurobehavioral deficits in rats and rabbits. Imidacloprid is neither carcinogenic in laboratory animals nor mutagenic in standard laboratory assays.[41] No studies have been published involving human subjects chronically exposed to imidacloprid. Effects of imidacloprid on human health and the environment depend on how much imidacloprid is present and the length and frequency of exposure. Effects also depend on the health of a person and/or certain environmental factors.[42] A study conducted in rats suggests that the neonicotinoids may adversely affect human health, especially the developing brain.[43]" Next time, use an alternative method and exercise a little patience. I'd rather spend the extra time with my plants and in the garden. Furthermore, quit feeding the new gardeners false information just because your either too impatient or not committed enough to see the results of even something as simple as soap spray. Sorry I'm not sorry.

Hello, Those look very similar to a critter that I found in my bin. I believe those to be mites. They are harmless to your worms, and indeed may be beneficial, since they consume decaying organic matter and help build the microbial load that the worms thrive on. Just another citizen of the bin. Someone more experienced might give a definite ID, but I think you're okay.

I know it's a little late, but evidently, a lot of May posts didn't get any replies. Those look like army worms from what I can see.